Preschool Safety for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Raising a child with cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological disorder that effects body movement and muscle coordination, commonly challenges parents. Symptoms of CP, like poor balance, difficulty communicating, and weakened muscle tone, can leave parents of a cerebral palsy child worried about the child's safety.

Preschool Safety

Iris, an organization which works with cerebral palsy infants, lists mobility, physical stamina, and communication skills as preschool safety concerns.

IEP

The first step requires the developing of an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) to ensure the safety of your child in preschool. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) insists special needs children receive the necessary accommodations to excel inside the classroom through an IEP.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy addresses a lot of the concerns parents have over the preschool safety of their children A physical therapist works with your child on improving balance and other physical abilities. By improving these physical abilities the risk of falling or getting injured lessens.

Speech Therapy

Sometimes children with cerebral palsy have difficulty communicating. Receiving speech therapy in preschool helps your child improve his communication skills and gives him the ability to ask for help if he feels unsafe.

Assistive Devices

Assistive devices make difficult tasks easier and allow your child to achieve independent while at the same time remaining safe. For example, a child with CP may use a cane or wheelchair to safely maneuver around in a preschool classroom.

References

• Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center
• Cerebral Palsy Source
• Iris