Cerebral Palsy also known as CP is the most common motor disability in children and more common amongst boys than girls and in the school system, most students with CP can be found in a wheelchair.
Helping children with cerebral palsy involves a multifaceted approach that addresses their physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.
Here are several ways to provide support:
Early Intervention: Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial. This might include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to address developmental delays and improve motor skills, communication, and independence.
Medical Care: Regular medical check-ups and consultations with specialists such as pediatricians, neurologists, and orthopedic surgeons can help manage symptoms, monitor progress, and address any complications that may arise.
Assistive Devices: Providing assistive devices and adaptive equipment such as braces, walkers, wheelchairs, or communication aids can enhance mobility, communication, and independence.
Educational Support: Collaborating with educators to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) ensures that children receive appropriate accommodations, modifications, and specialized instruction tailored to their unique needs.
Emotional Support: Offering emotional support and encouragement to both the child and their family is essential. Connecting with support groups, counseling services, and community resources can provide valuable emotional support and practical guidance.
Inclusion: Promoting inclusion and creating an inclusive environment in schools, communities, and social settings fosters acceptance, understanding, and opportunities for children with cerebral palsy to participate fully in various activities and social interactions.
Advocacy: Advocating for the rights and inclusion of children with cerebral palsy in society helps raise awareness, promote accessibility, and ensure equal opportunities for education, employment, and participation in community life.
Encouraging Independence: Encouraging independence and autonomy by teaching self-care skills and providing opportunities for children to make choices and take on responsibilities according to their abilities can boost self-esteem and confidence.
By implementing these strategies and providing comprehensive support, we can help children with cerebral palsy reach their full potential, lead fulfilling lives, and actively participate in society.
However, due to technology and advances in assistive technology devices people with CP can function daily with the help of technology advances.
Also, along with the help of Physical and Occupational Therapists working together toys for children with Cerebral Palsy are great for brain and motor development.
6 Best Toys for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Puddy is a great resource for helping children with CP gain more control over their fine motor ability when rebuilding strength in their joints. I’ve used this inside my classroom and it has been a joy and also works wonders for any child with special needs.
1. BettRoom Toddler Toys For Kids Boys and Girls
Not only is this toy great for building fine motor skills it also teaches children their colors and shapes while learning by stacking the wooden shapes in their correct space. This toy also works on hand-eye coordination to set each piece in its correct spot.
2. KIDWILL Preschool Math Learning Toy
This toy is great for children with cerebral palsy because it teaches math such as addition and subtraction as well as teaches children their colors. This is great for manipulating the small beads on the board while also completing math problems at the same time.
3. Champion Sports for Kids Boys and Girls
This is my FAVORITE product for children with special needs. It is great for all children with disabilities including especially children with cerebral palsy because it helps build fine and gross motor skills at home or in school. Scooter boards have been used to help Occupational Therapist and Physical Therapist when working with clients to build strength.
Great resource for teachers to use for students with cerebral palsy at school and even I’ve had to use it to get out a few kinks in my back. Not all children with CP are found in a wheelchair and even if so students with CP can still utilize this trampoline for building gross motor skills.
5. Kinetic Sand, The Original Moldable Sensory Play Sand Toys for Kids – Cerebral Palsy
Sand is a child’s best friend when learning and exploring the world. Kinetic sand is a great way for children with CP to maximize their strength by building and squeezing the sand.
6. Gaiam Kids Stay-N-Play Children’s Balance Ball – Cerebral Palsy
Yes!! this may not be a toy but I couldn’t resist not adding this ball chair to the list because it is great for not only exercise but also for other mobility purposes as well.
This ball chair is great for children with special needs because it can serve many different purposes physically and mentally when utilized at school or home.
Conclusion
Overall, each toy and product is different for all children with special needs and you have to choose what works best for your child.
Children with Cerebral Palsy are just like any other children who require a lot of care and attention.
However, with many advances in today’s society and people who want to make mobility more efficient and accessible people with CP are thriving more than ever in today’s society.
Also, be sure to check out my video on what accommodations can be used to help children with CP if they’re in school.
