Introduction to the Perception-Action Approach (PAA)

Live Training, Sydney, August 2025

Date: Saturday & Sunday, August 9-10, 2025
Location: Hornsby RSL, Sydney 

Limited Places Available!

Click Here to Register

Introduction to the Perception-Action Approach (PAA)

Live Training, Sydney, August 2025

Date: Saturday & Sunday, August 9-10, 2025
Location: Hornsby RSL, Sydney 

Limited Places Available!

Click Here to Register!

The NDIS is Changing - What Training Do You Need?

The NDIS shift toward impairment-based funding presents a challenge: how can therapists stay evidence-informed, neuro-affirming and strengths-based while ensuring therapy approaches align with new funding criteria?
The Perception-Action Approach (PAA) bridges this gap, offering a modern, evidence-informed approach that prioritises self-generated movement, problem-solving, and motor adaptability - all while meeting the evolving NDIS framework.
For the first time in Australia, this exclusive training, led by Elaine Becker, provides therapists with practical, hands-on strategies to apply PAA in everyday clinical practice.

Why Attend?

Learn PAA Treatment & Handling Techniques

Gain practical,  hands-on skills for guiding self-generated movement, problem-solving & motor adaptability

Move Beyond Traditional Milestones

Shift from impairment correction to function-driven therapy

Interactive, Applied Learning

Hands-on training, video case studies and real-world application

Strengths-Based & Evidence-Driven

Learn a dynamic approach to motor development

Exclusive to Australia

Be among the first therapists in the country to train in PAA

Limited Spots Available

We are expecting this to sell out!

I Want This Training!

What is the Perception-Action Approach (PAA)?

The Perception-Action Approach (PAA) is a paradigm shift in motor therapy. Instead of correcting movement patterns, PAA prioritises variability, adaptability, and child-led movement.

The PAA is rooted in:

  • Perception-Action Theory – Movement and perception form a continuous learning loop.

  • Dynamic Systems Theory – Motor development is self-organising and influenced by multiple systems.

  • Neuronal Group Selection Theory – Repeated movement experiences strengthen motor learning.

PAA focuses on:

✔ Caregiver involvement in real-world settings.
✔ Task-specific movement that is meaningful to the child.
✔ Encouraging self-initiated problem-solving rather than therapist-led corrections.
✔ Repetitive practice of functional movements that drive long-term motor learning.

I Want to Learn the Perception-Action Approach!

What You'll Learn

🔹 The theoretical basis of PAA.

🔹 How to apply PAA in clinical practice.

🔹 The importance of movement variability and self-generated action.

🔹 Strategies for optimising motor function in children with disabilities.

🔹 How to integrate PAA with neuroplasticity principles.

🔹 Gentle-touch manual guidance for supporting motor exploration.

🔹 How to adjust the therapy environment to encourage independent movement.

🔹 Hands-on partner labs to experience PAA techniques in action.

Register Now - Limited spaces available!

📖 Want to learn more?

Read this important PAA article Elaine Becker contributed to by Rahlin, M., Barnett, J., Becker, E., & Fregosi, C.M.: Development Through the Lens of a Perception-Action-Cognition Connection: Recognizing the Need for a Paradigm Shift in Clinical Reasoning (Free Full Text)
Check out this related PAA study, Feasibility of an intensive outpatient Perception-Action Approach intervention for children with cerebral palsy: a pilot study (Free Abstract)
Explore the PAA theoretical foundations on the official website.

Core Concepts

PAA is a child-driven, interactive approach that enhances motor adaptability, exploration, and problem-solving.

Key Principles:

✔ Environmental Affordances – Setting up therapy spaces that naturally invite movement and exploration.
✔ Manual Guidance – Using gentle, light touch to provide new perceptual information without restricting movement.
✔ Perceptual Information Gathering – Movement provides real-time feedback that drives motor learning.
✔ Self-Organisation & Problem-Solving – Encouraging children to discover multiple movement solutions.
✔ Therapists will practice partner-based labs and analyse real-world case studies.

Event Details

📅 Dates: August 9-10, 2025
📍 Location: Hornsby RSL, Sydney
🎟  Early Bird Price: $797 (Full Price: $897)
✋Spots Are Limited – Secure Yours Today!

Register for PAA

 Venue & Accessibility

The training will take place at Hornsby RSL, a convenient and accessible location just a 5-minute walk from Hornsby Station with on-site parking available.
🚆 Public Transport:
  • Hornsby Station is a 5-minute walk from the venue, with connections to the T1 North Shore & Northern Lines and Central Coast & Newcastle Line.
  • Multiple bus routes serve the area, making it easy to reach the venue.
🚗 Parking:
  • A multi-story car park is available via William Street, just a short walk to the venue.
♿ Accessibility:
  • The venue offers ramp access, accessible parking, and elevator access for wheelchair users.
  • Accessible restrooms are located near the function rooms.
☕ Meals & Refreshments:
  • Lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea will be provided.

Meet Your Speaker

Dr Elaine Becker, PT, DPT

Dr Elaine Becker is a highly respected physical therapist and educator with extensive experience in paediatric rehabilitation and movement sciences.
Elaine is Full Clinical Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at New York University and a Paediatric Clinical Specialist accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association’s Board for Physical Therapy Specialists. 
Elaine has a deep expertise in the Perception-Action approach (PA) and is recognised for her ability to bridge clinical practice with evidence-based movement strategies. The PA approach is valuable for every member of the interdisciplinary team, physical, occupational therapists and speech pathologists to integrate dynamic movement-based interventions to enhance motor learning and functional outcomes for children.
Elaine is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and educator, sharing her insights through workshops and professional platforms worldwide.
Limited Places Available - Register Now!

Who Should Attend?

Occupational Therapists

Physiotherapists

Therapists Supporting Motor Development & Function

Therapists Working in the NDIS Space

 If you work in paediatrics, motor therapy, or early intervention, this training will equip you with immediate strategies to enhance your practice. 

This course is ideal for therapists looking to strengthen their clinical reasoning, treatment strategies, and hands-on skills for motor development.

I Want This Training!

Don’t Miss Out!

With NDIS changes on the way that will change our caseloads and practice, therapists must ensure their approach is appropriate and evidence-informed - but that doesn’t mean compromising on quality, values, or child-centred therapy.
PAA offers a powerful, science and research-backed framework to help you support children’s motor development while staying aligned with the evolving NDIS model.
🚀 Be part of this exclusive first-time event in Australia. Register now!
Limited Places Available - Click Here to Secure Your Spot!