Child Development

Selecting toys for children that have cerebral palsy can present a challenge for some parents, friends, and caregivers. It’s important to choose toys that are easy for children with CP to use so that they can have fun safely, regardless of their difference in abilities. Rest assured that there are many options available. Switch-Adapted Toys... Read More

The signs of cerebral palsy (CP) can vary from child to child because there is a wide range of levels of this condition. One of the earliest indicators of cerebral palsy is uncontrollable movements of the head and extremities. This list of cerebral palsy symptoms by age isn’t exhaustive but serves as a good starting... Read More

One of the greatest joys—and reliefs—of new parenthood is seeing your baby reach the expected developmental benchmarks of infancy, such as sitting, rolling over, crawling, and walking. Babies who have trouble reaching these normal milestones may be exhibiting the signs of many different conditions. One such condition is cerebral palsy—a motor disorder that can result... Read More

Each individual diagnosed with cerebral palsy may face special challenges, and no one-size-fits-all plan for treatment exists. Many individuals diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) experience significant physical setbacks. As a result, physical therapy for cerebral palsy is often a core element of treatment. Your child’s team of healthcare professionals can work with you to determine... Read More

When you’re raising a child with cerebral palsy, the toys they play with need to promote the development of fine and gross motor skills, communication skills and intellectual growth—which means they should be carefully chosen to accommodate your child’s unique abilities. But they should also be a safe and fun way to help your child... Read More

Receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis for your child can be an overwhelming experience that few parents are prepared to navigate. Along with the physical and emotional struggles, parents must learn to navigate their child’s medical needs, as well as the financial burden that accompanies those needs. And the sooner this begins, the better. This article... Read More

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders caused by brain damage or malformation, specifically to parts of the brain that control motor function. While cerebral palsy isn’t a learning disability, it often presents with coexisting conditions related to learning difficulties. How Does Cerebral Palsy Affect the Brain? Cerebral palsy affects the cerebral cortex, which... Read More

While developmental milestones can be tremendously helpful in gauging a child’s mental and physical development, they are only guidelines. No two babies are alike and no two develop in the same ways or at the same rate, though most reach these milestones at similar ages. If your child was born prematurely, or has other challenges... Read More

Even the most supportive parents of children with cerebral palsy may at times wonder whether their kids will be able to participate in certain physical activities. After all, cerebral palsy affects the brain’s motor area, which can make movement, sight and even cognitive ability difficult. But here’s the good news. There are tons of activities... Read More

By Lee Vander Loop CP Family Network Editor Perhaps nothing is more important to a child as he or she grows older than the ability to control their bowels and bladder. With successful “potty training” comes freedom to move into the wider world, such as school or day care. It is a major developmental milestone... Read More