Damage to the brain occurs before, during birth or before the child's 2nd year. Cerebral Palsy is non progressive, nonhereditary and non contagious. Cerebral Palsy is an umbrella term describing different types of movement disorders, which includes Spastic Diplegia, Hemiplegia, Spastic Quadriplegia, Hypotonia, Choreoathetoid, and Ataxia. The senses of taste, touch, smell, sight, and hearing are not necessarily impaired in the child with cerebral palsy, although they can be underdeveloped because of lack of stimulation. Provide the child with every available opportunity to explore senses.
Outings can include other schools, grocery store, park, and the beach.
Variation of diet can stimulate the senses of taste and smell. Tape record the child's voice and then listen to it together. Be sure to work with the physical therapist or respiratory therapist to improve respiration. Many children with cerebral palsy do not have the respiration to support phonation. By increasing respiration, the child may verbalize longer utterances.