How to Care for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Overview

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that begins during infancy or in early childhood. The condition primarily affects movement and coordination. Though it causes difficulties with movement, it is not due to nerve or muscular impairment but with the signals for motion generated in the brain. Parents of children afflicted with cerebral palsy face numerous challenges and should develop a strategy for care, including network of support.

Step 1

Obtain support services from the state to help you deal with the costs associated with caring for a child with cerebral palsy. Contact your local department of social services to apply for financial help and services.

Step 2

Set up a network of physicians and therapists for your child. Have your child assessed every three to six months in terms of his changing needs regarding physical, speech, hearing, vision and daily living therapies. Keep detailed records of your appointments with the various caregivers and of medications prescribed to your child.

Step 3

Document your child's progress in a journal. Keeping a weekly journal detailing your child's successes as well as struggles will help you when you meet with various physicians and therapists. You will be able to give them concrete answers to their queries and will be able to pose specific questions.

Step 4

Modify your home to make it as accessible as possible for your special needs child. You may need to put in ramps, rearrange furniture or buy specially made items for his comfort and well being. You may need to purchase a special therapeutic bed when your child reaches a certain age.

Step 5

Develop a support group of your closest friends and family. It is likely that you will not be able to do everything for your child yourself. It is also necessary to have breaks so that you can return to your child refreshed.

Step 6

Research individual schools for your child at least six months prior to her entering formal academic education. While the law gives children the right to attend public education you need to make sure that the school you are considering is qualified to teach and meet the physical and emotional needs of a child with cerebral palsy.

Step 7

Stay abreast regarding developments in "supportive technology." Speak with your child's physicians and therapists regarding what type of equipment in terms of customized wheelchairs and computer programs can be beneficial for her needs.

Step 8

Be prepared for the possibility of multiple surgeries. Your child may need several procedures to aid problems with joints, nerves and muscles. Carefully research particular surgeries, discuss the procedures in detail with the surgeon and make arrangements for recovery once your child is released from hospital care.