Therapy Activities for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a permanent neurological disorder that affects a person's brain (cerebral) and the way it communicates with the muscles (palsy). It is estimated that around 764,000 children and adults in the United States have some degree of cerebral palsy and about 8,000 babies and infants are diagnosed with it each year. While premature birth and other factors increase the risk of cerebral palsy, its exact cause is unknown. However, treatment is available, and the earlier, the better your child's chances of success in life.

Physical Therapy

• A physical therapist commonly uses a variety of activities and games to help a child with cerebral palsy improve his or her flexibility, strength, mobility and function. The PT may work with a child at a clinic or school, but often does home visits as well. The PT decides on and orders equipment specifically suited for the child's needs and makes modifications as needed. The PT gives the parent or caretaker activities to do with the child as part of an ongoing home exercise program. Examples are: walking in a walker, climbing up and down stairs, crawling on all fours, sitting on a bench, and sitting on a balance ball.

Occupational Therapy

• An occupational therapist focuses on helping a child with cerebral palsy learn the physical skills needed to perform his or her "occupation," i.e. being a kid. The OT will often use fun, positive activities to enhance a child's cognitive, physical and fine motor skills as well as boost her self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. The goal is to help the children perform their daily activities so they can be as independent as possible. Examples are: feeding, brushing teeth, getting dressed, handwriting and hand-eye coordination.

Speech Therapy

• Because cerebral palsy sometimes affects the muscles needed for proper speech functioning, a speech and language therapist helps a child express his or her ideas and understand those expressed by others. Examples are: learning the letters of the alphabet, new words, and speaking in sentences, and using sign language or assistive technology devices to aid in communication.

Hippo Therapy

• Hippo therapy, or horseback riding therapy, helps a child with cerebral palsy improve his or her posture and balance, coordination, muscle strength, gross motor skills (walking, sitting, standing), speech and comprehension, not to mention increases self-confidence and improves a child's overall well-being physically, psychologically and emotionally. In this way, your child can improve and learn valuable skills while having fun and spending time outdoors and connecting with nature.

Aqua Therapy

• Since water reduces the pressure on bones and joints, playing in the water can allow a child with cerebral palsy to move about more freely and perform exercises that may not be possible on dry land, i.e. some aerobic exercises such as walking, kicking, jumping, or actual swimming. Specially trained therapists can lead your child through gentle exercises that can help increase muscle tone, improved coordination and increased endurance. In the process, of course, having fun in the pool can also help your child decrease stress and improve self esteem.

Final Thoughts

• These are a few of the main therapies available for children with cerebral palsy. Often multiple therapies are done in conjunction with each other. In addition, there are a multitude of other exercises and games you can try, including: yoga and massage, riding a bicycle or tricycle, ball games, drawing, painting, playing with clay and so many others. But the most important thing to remember is to choose therapy activities that are fun, that your child enjoys, and that will make him laugh and feel good. If your child is having fun and feeling loved, the chances of success increase dramatically.