In the Know: Cerebral palsy

A child may have cerebral palsy if he or she shows a number of early signs:

When the baby can’t lift his or her own head, arms and legs

Has difficulty closing the mouth and swallowing

The body tends to stiffen when lying on the back

Either irritable due to lack of sleep, or

“Very quiet” because of long periods spent asleep

What parents can do for them at home:

“Look, touch and sing’’: Make it a form of communication

Use simple words and gestures. Give the child time to respond; don’t force him or her to speak

During feeding time, keep the child in an upright position, with the jaw supported

Introduce different food textures; use a spoon with a thick handle so the child can hold it with less difficulty

Help the child learn how to walk by making him hold on to furniture or parallel bars

Encourage the child to play or do other activities, like moving the arms at the same time or alternately, or holding a toy and then releasing it

Encourage play with other children and in different positions

Encourage the child to wash or dress himself while holding onto things for support, if needed

Help the child put his weight on one foot while he lifts the other

After the child manages to stand up with assistance, try to let him do it alone

When placing the child on a special chair, keep his feet flat on the floor

To help a child lie down, put a roll, wedge or cushion under the body