CalmConnect is the only program to synthesize research from the polyvagal theory of emotion and attachment, the social pain overlap theory, mirror neurons, and audiovisual synchrony, helping people of all ages and abilities to calm their nervous system, regulate their behavior, and connect with others.
The program integrates music, movement, vocal frequencies, and visual patterns synchronized with the expressive features of emotion and the movement of others. Each of these areas has undergone a multitude of research that support the benefits being experienced by those who participate in this program.
Wayzata Public Schools — 81% Reduction in Off-Task Behavior
Wayzata collected off-task behavior (not following directions, distracting behavior, talking out of turn, leaving seat, and being disengaged) from 25 classrooms (PreK – 4) in 4 different elementary schools. Using a “pre-post” methodology with one school as a control group, “post” data was collected on weeks 1, 3, 5 and 13. CalmConnect provided an 81% reduction in off-task behavior (Lackner, 2018).
Saint Paul Public Schools — 59% Reduction in Off-Task Behavior
Saint Paul Public Schools measured CalmConnect’s efficacy in reducing off-task behavior during Spring 2017. ‘Prevent’ staff, school counselors, and school social workers observed students in 4 classrooms in 2 elementary schools (8 total) over a 5-week period. The classrooms included 3 E1 Montessori classrooms (grades 1-3), 3 first grade, 1 second grade, and 1 fifth grade classroom. (Heinrichs, 2017).
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REDUCTION in Off-Task Behavior
An Early Childhood Specialist in Alton IL conducted pre/post research with CalmConnect in her mixed pre/K classroom for a graduate study. Using CalmConnect approximately 4 minutes a day reduced off-task behavior by 71% (Radcliff, 2011).
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REDUCTION in Off-Task Behavior
NYC Autism Specialists studied CalmConnect’s impact in the classroom during Summer Session 2017. CalmConnect was used in four classrooms in two schools. The classrooms included students from grades 4 and 5, and grades 6, 7, and 8. Students had severe autism and significant cognitive and behavioral challenges. After three weeks of consistent use CalmConnect was shown to reduce off-task behavior by an average of 48% (Bruder, 2017).
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INCREASE in ON-Task Behavior
A study showed that when one sequence was used in a behaviorally challenged Special Ed classroom just twice a week for six weeks, on-task behavior improved by 25% (Locke & Stansberry, 2016)
Improvement for Residents with Dementia
Case studies in memory care settings for patients with mild (CPT 4.6), moderate (3.0), and severe dementia (CPT 2.0) showed program participation with movement and calming/’lightened’ mood. (Kueffer OTS, Rhone OTS, Sears OTS, Schaber PhD, OTR/L 2016)
Improved Quality of Life for Residents of Long-Term Care/Caregivers
SAPH is Saskatchewan’s largest network of long-term residential homes for adults with special needs, with over 300 families providing long-term care, often to multiple residents in each home. With the support of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services, SAPH measured changes in resident behavior from regular use of the program. Research showed CalmConnect’s pilot program significantly reduced fidgeting, wandering, pounding, talking out of turn, disruptions, and tantrums while improving sleep, getting ready in the morning, chore completion, quiet mealtimes, and smiling. The program also significantly increased caregiver satisfaction and joy. (Dey, 2018.)
The Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies at UW/Madison is currently researching CalmConnect in a multi-year study funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to examine the program’s impact on social connection, loneliness, mental health, and sleep in 300 older adults.
Additional Studies
When used twice a day for a total of 15 minutes by adolescents with severe autism, students were observed to be more engaged and calmer in the classroom. Over the course of 6 weeks, there was a significant increase in social interaction as well as a decrease in undesirable behaviors due to an ability to communicate wants and needs more effectively (Titone, 2010).
A 5-year-old boy with severe autism showed improved mirror neuron functioning, as well as an increase in behavioral outcomes: speech and language, eye contact, and imitative gestures. The young boy and his family engaged in CalmConnect 5 minutes a day, 5 days a week for 12 weeks. Along with significant behavioral changes, CalmConnect was a “protocol that is fun and engaging for children and their families to do at home together.” (Leigh, 2010, presented at the International Meeting for Autism Research, Philadelphia, 2010).