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