Coping With Cerebral Palsy

Children with CP are more likely to have behavioralfrustration.
and emotional difficulties than the non-disabled kids,2. Let the child vent his/her feelings by his irate and
which may have a potentially deleterious effect onout of control behavior till the child is tired
quality of life.They shouldn't be treated with pity and3. Remember your child can do anything if he/she has
sorrow as they experience life as most children do.a mind to
Great deal of effort is needed to support the social4. Do not worry if the child gets hurt. Just tend to
and educational cause. We must recognize thethe child normally
similarity between disabled children and those of5. Give quality time to the child to make him/her feel
other children. Their rights must be ensured ascomfortable in his/her surroundings
citizens and not as disabled children. They must be6. Look for an experienced therapist who has dealt
allowed to participate in every aspect of society aswith CP
non-disabled children do.HELPING PARENTS COPE
HOW TO HELP A CHILD WITH CPRaising a child having CP is very challenging. After
Every individual concerned, be it the parent,having a perfectly healthy child, the last thing a
caregiver, or teacher, must aim at helping the child toparent would want is that something terrible happens
be as independent as possible. It may be difficult butbecause of a brain injury. When something goes so
the parents must try their best to support the childterribly wrong, not just the child's but also the
to cope with CP.parents lives are shattered as well.
Guiding the child in following way may be helpful:oThe following tips may help the parents overcome
Help your child to be as independent as possibleothe difficulties and cope with it:o Be part of a support
Support only when neededo Speak out whengroup with other parents having children with CP.o
absolutely neededo Get him/ her to know otherGrieve if you musto Continuing to have interest in
children with CPo Technology helps to make mobilityyour career, personal interests, friends etc. helps
and regular activities easiero Have a positive andlower stress level.o Spending some time for yourself
realistic attitude towards your childaway from your child helps.o Don't let self doubt
TO COPE WITH CPcreep in. Just think of the good things you did for
1. Try breathing techniques to do away withyour child.