7 Tips for Parents of Children with Cerebral Palsy
Understanding Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy refers to specific neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, coordination, and motor skills caused by damage or abnormalities in a developing brain. ➔ It appears in early childhood ➔ Symptoms may change over time ➔ Symptoms differ in type and severity for different people Symptoms may include: ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔
Seizures Intellectual disability Language and speech difficulties Problems with movement and posture Abnormal physical sensations or perceptions
Caring for a Child with Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Cerebral Palsy is the leading cause of childhood disabilities. It affects each child in different ways thus no two parents will have the same experience in caring for their child with CP. A few tips that can help you care better for your child: 1. Get organised - Prepare a handy list including important dates, doctors’ phone numbers, emergency contacts, appointment schedules, medical records, lab test results, and medication ➔ Helps reduce daily stress ➔ Keeps you prepared for an emergency 2.
Promote an active lifestyle
➔ Help your child walk, play, and move as much as possible ➔ Teach new skills and focus on different activities to strengthen muscles
Caring for a Child with Cerebral Palsy (CP)
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Focus on a nutritious diet Serve healthy food that helps strengthen bones and muscles Make your child consume food that is rich in calcium, fiber, and protein Include low-fat dairy products, fruits, and leafy green vegetables Get a nutritionist on board
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Instil optimism in your child Help your child to develop a positive attitude Seek mental health care if necessary Help them focus on what they can do and do those things together
5. Expose your child to new activities and experiences ➔ Helps them boost their self-esteem ➔ Helps them learn new skills
Caring for a Child with Cerebral Palsy (CP)
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Get to know other parents Forming a bond that works as a support system Assisting each other with treatment options Forming a friendship amongst children Sharing experiences
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Take care of your own health Maintain a proper diet Get plenty of sleep Take time out to rest Ask for help if and when needed
A child with CP requires long-term physical and mental care which can get overwhelming at times. Look for the best treatment plans for Cerebral Palsy for your child.
Thank you.