All children need a nutritious and balanced diet for healthy development. But children with cerebral palsy have certain physical challenges and potential nutritional deficiencies that make it crucial to carefully monitor and plan their daily diet. For those reasons, nutrition therapy is often an integral part of caring for a child with CP. Do Children... Read More

Cerebral palsy doesn’t cause oral abnormalities on its own, but children with cerebral palsy can be more susceptible to oral hygiene conditions and complications than the general population. Cerebral palsy dental care is an important part of managing your child’s life. With routine dental checkups and regularly practiced oral care at home, your child can... Read More

By Lee Vander Loop CP Family Network Editor I once saw a cartoon in the newspaper that featured a conversation between a sleep-deprived mom and dad arguing over who should get up for the 3 a.m. feeding. It was a reminder that sleeplessness is an inevitable part of parenting a newborn that most, at least... Read More

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

Cerebral palsy can lead to challenges that make it difficult for children to walk on their own. As symptoms and severity of CP vary, different types of wheelchairs may be most appropriate for different children. A wheelchair may make everyday activities easier for children with CP, improving the quality of life for both the child... Read More

When your child needs a particular medication, therapy, treatment, or assistive device, your request to an insurance company, government agency or other funding source can sometimes be denied. Oftentimes they will require a letter of medical necessity, which is typically provided by your physician or therapist. Letters of medical necessity are critical to getting coverage... Read More

By Lee Vander Loop CP Family Network Editor For many children with cerebral palsy, communication is a struggle. Some may have a limited ability to learn and understand speech due to cognitive impairment. Others may have difficulty speaking clearly because of motor issues that result in poor control over their tongues, lips, and mouths. Although... Read More

CPFN Special Contributors Anita Howell and Lisa Viele explain the federal “Stay Put” rule—which gives parents a voice when making decisions about their children’s education—and how it impacted Anita’s son, Ryan. TRANSCRIPT Text: Ever walk into an IEP (Individualized education plan) meeting and feel overpowered by the teachers and their plans? The federal “Stay Put”... Read More

Cerebral palsy, a lifelong condition caused by damage to the developing brain, can result in problems with bodily movement, memory, attention, and more. Many factors—including, lack of oxygen to the fetus, and trauma sustained before, during, or shortly after birth—can cause the condition. However, in some cases medical malpractice is to blame. Unfortunately, you may... Read More

By Anita Howell CPFN Special Contributor Most school districts are in full swing by now and, regardless of what turmoil the pandemic is currently bringing, there are a few things about back-to-school that remain consistent every year. Let’s take a look at a few. Finding Your Voice for Your Next IEP Meeting For those of... Read More