A cerebral palsy diagnosis can greatly impact the quality of life for both a child and their entire family. Although living with cerebral palsy may necessitate various changes and accommodations, there are ways of improving the wellbeing, comfort, and happiness of children with cerebral palsy. What Impacts Quality of Life for Children With CP and... Read More

Families with children suffering cerebral palsy often wonder, “How long do people with cerebral palsy live?” Most children with cerebral palsy can have a long, productive life with the right care and treatment. This, of course, means they may need more medications, therapies, and medical interventions than children without it. For kids with cerebral palsy,... Read More

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