CAREGIVERS

Caregivers are the most important people in an infant’s life. Professionals understand that you are often the expert in reporting your child’s difficulties, the most likely to notice if something isn’t quite right, and the most impactful in implementing therapeutic practices into daily family life. It can be difficult to carry the responsibility of being your child’s first line of defense, but it can also be empowering when you are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to advocate for your child. One potential developmental concern is Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP is a group of neurological disorders that result in difficulty with movement due to a brain abnormality that occurred before, during, or soon after birth.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS

You are not alone! Navigating this journey can be overwhelming – it may be helpful to find a community of peers to share experiences with and to give and receive support.

Explore groups in the Los Angeles area, and find the right one for you.

INFANTS AT RISK FOR CEREBRAL PALSY

While CP can be diagnosed in infants and children during the first years of life, it may not be evident until the child is not meeting their developmental milestones. However, there are a number of medical reasons why a child may be at a higher risk of developing CP. Understanding these risk factors can empower caregivers with information to assist in monitoring their child’s growth and development, and to raise concerns with the child’s doctor. If your child is diagnoses with CP, there are many interventions and supports available. The most important thing to remember is the sooner we can identify children with CP, the sooner families can get help.

LEARN MORE: Use this as a guide to talk with your pediatrician or NICU doctor about if and why your baby may be at a higher risk of developing CP

EARLY SIGNS
OF CEREBRAL
PALSY

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination. While CP can be diagnosed in infants and children, it may not be evident until they reach certain developmental milestones. Some early signs to look for include delays in reaching motor milestones (such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or walking), difficulty with fine motor skills (such as grasping objects or using utensils), muscle stiffness or floppiness, abnormal postures or movements, persistent primitive reflexes, poor coordination or balance, and difficulty with speech or swallowing. It is important to note that these signs alone do not confirm a diagnosis of CP, but if you notice any concerns, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

EARLY SIGNS
& MILESTONES

EARLY SIGNS & MILESTONES

You may feel unsure about what clues to look out for in the first year of life, or what is considered typical for development. If you are interested in learning more about expected milestones, screening and diagnosis, and the different types of CP, there are some helpful resources to consult. Guidelines from the CDC, the CP alliance, and the National Institutes of Health may all help further your understanding of CP.

Click here for a downloadable form you can share with your doctor for more information on milestones, signs, and symptoms

Despite the challenges associated with cerebral palsy (CP), children can still achieve many important developmental milestones. While the timeline may vary, some positive milestones that children with CP can reach include making eye contact and responding to stimuli early on, smiling, laughing, and engaging in social interactions.

LEARN MORE: CDC Information

ISSUES TO WATCH FOR

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) may experience motor difficulties, including challenges with movement, coordination, and muscle control. They may have speech and communication difficulties, such as articulation and clarity issues. Spasticity and muscle stiffness can affect their range of motion and coordination. Sensory issues and cognitive challenges may also be present, impacting their sensory processing and learning abilities. Additionally, emotional and social well-being can be affected due to physical limitations and communication barriers. It’s important to provide appropriate support, therapies, and interventions to address these issues and promote the child’s overall development and quality of life.

EARLY
INTERVENTION
& DIAGNOSIS

By following these guidelines, parents can play a proactive role in ensuring early intervention and early diagnosis for their child, setting the foundation for their optimal development and future success.

Be vigilant for early signs: Familiarize yourself with the typical developmental milestones for infants and children and observe your child’s progress. Look out for any delays or differences in motor skills, speech and language development, social interactions, and overall behavior.

Seek professional evaluation: If you have concerns about your child’s development, consult with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. Early diagnosis is crucial for accessing timely interventions and support.

Early intervention services: Enroll your child in early intervention programs that provide specialized therapies tailored to their needs. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other interventions designed to promote development and address specific challenges.

Create a support network: Reach out to other parents of children with similar conditions or join support groups to connect with individuals who understand your experiences. They can provide valuable advice, emotional support, and resources.Create a support network: Reach out to other parents of children with similar conditions or join support groups to connect with individuals who understand your experiences. They can provide valuable advice, emotional support, and resources.

Educate yourself: Learn about your child’s condition, available treatments, and therapies. Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in the field of early intervention. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate effectively for your child.

Focus on holistic development: Remember that early intervention and diagnosis involve more than just addressing specific challenges. Pay attention to your child’s overall well- being, including their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Foster a nurturing and inclusive environment that supports their growth in all areas.

Being a proactive parent in the early intervention and early diagnosis of your child is crucial for their overall development and well-being. By staying vigilant for early signs, seeking professional evaluation, and enrolling your child in appropriate early intervention services, you can provide them with the necessary support and therapies tailored to their needs. Building a strong support network, educating yourself about your child’s condition, and focusing on their holistic development are equally important. Remember, early intervention is a collaborative effort that requires continuous communication with healthcare professionals, therapists, and other parents. By taking these steps, you can empower your child to reach their full potential and navigate their unique journey with confidence and resilience.

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EARLY
INTERVENTION
& DIAGNOSIS

Perhaps you have already received information about your child being at high risk for developing CP, or you have concerns about their development from some of the information you have collected from the resources above. So what comes next? Caregivers can play a proactive role advocating for their child to push for earlier diagnosis and earlier access to intervention services.

Report any concerns or early signs to your pediatrician
If your baby was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit call and ask if they are eligible for an High Risk Infant Follow-up (HRIF) visit
If eligible for HRIF, make and keep all appointments (babies do best with early and consistent intervention)
Ask your doctor for a referral to one or all of the following (depending on eligibility): Regional Center, California Children’s Services, Outpatient Therapy services

To get more information and contacts about these steps, click here for a downloadable graphic.

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Learn more with this American Academy of Pediatrics Checklist