Cerebral palsy is a medical condition where children have disabilities of movement, speech, cognition, or combination of these problems. These largely develop due to difficulty with pregnancy or birth.
A family centered approach is used with children who have CP. The Occupational therapist has to work closely with families in order to address their concerns and priorities for their child. The focus is to get the children to be stimulated and involved in the daily routines and families activities. Parent counseling is also an important aspect of occupational therapy treatment with regard to optimizing the parent’s skills in caring for and playing with their child to support improvement of their child’s abilities to do things.
Occupational therapists may address issues relating to sensory, cognitive, or motor impairments resulting from CP that affect the child’s participation in self-care, productivity, or leisure. Occupational therapy enables individuals with cerebral play to participate in activities of daily living that are meaningful to them. This involves getting children of all ages to engage in movement, play, learning and scholastic ability.
Occupational Therapist may also recommend changes to the play are, changes to the structure of the room or building and seating positioning techniques to allow the child to play effectively. The occupational therapist typically assesses the child’s abilities and difficulties. They assist with adapting the immediate environment and incorporate participation in daily activities.
