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Learning Through Play: Games for Kids with Cerebral Palsy

Author: Katherine Webre
by Katherine Webre
Posted: Dec 11, 2020

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when confronted with children with cerebral palsy is a misplaced focus on differences. They see the ways in which a child affected by cerebral palsy might be different from a child without this disorder. However, the fact is, there are a lot more similarities between children with cerebral palsy and other children than there are differences. One of the main commonalities is that they all love to play.

Play therapy is one of the best ways for a child with cerebral palsy to learn both mentally and physically. Playing games that help in development is a standard approach for all children, and the benefits are potentially even more beneficial for children with cerebral palsy.

Children with cerebral palsy often have a lot on their plate. They may have to see therapists for a wide range of treatments. It can be quite stressful. Having an outlet to get the therapy that they need while having fun can relieve a lot of the pressure.

Common Types of Play Therapy for Children With Cerebral Palsy

There is a wide range of activities that can help your child with cerebral palsy to develop optimally. These include:

  • Physical activity

  • Hand play

  • Games

  • Puzzles

  • Music

  • Art

Physical Activity

One of the best things for the health of a child with cerebral palsy – or any child – or any person at all – is physical activity. While what types of activities you are able to do will vary depending on your child's level of mobility, an activity that any child can participate in is dancing. Put on some music that your child enjoys and shake it.

Playing sports is also a great option. Depending on your child's mobility issues, you might want to look for creative adjustments to keep the activity fun for your child and keep them from getting frustrated.

Hand Play

Hand play is a vital way to help your child with cerebral palsy develop the skills that they need to succeed. Many children with cerebral palsy have difficulty grabbing things, so activities involving hand play can help your child to develop the muscles they need for this.

There are multiple activities that involve hand play. Playdough is a great way for your child to develop their fine motor skills while also having fun and expressing themselves creatively. Building blocks like Legos are another great tool that can help your child to grow their dexterity while having fun. Other helpful activities include sorting games and using sticker books.

Games

Many great games involve precision or speed movement that can assist in your child's development, from things like pick-up sticks and Operation to jacks and Hungry Hungry Hippos.

Puzzles

Puzzles are another great way for your child to improve their dexterity. Puzzles are a fun way to engage any brain as the search for patterns helps sharpen the mind.

Music

Music has many benefits. It engages the mind while also helping your child to develop rhythm. Listening to music and singing along or making up songs can be a great outlet for your child. While playing an instrument may prove challenging, there are typically still options available. Playing the harp might not be something your child is able to do, but playing a drum is likely in their wheelhouse.

Art

Art therapy can have many benefits. There are the obvious benefits of engaging motor skills and creativity. However, there are also more subtle perks. One study showed benefits for a child with difficulty controlling speech function. When engaging these children in conversation while they are working on their art projects, they showed improvement in speech function over time.

Ask About Alternative Therapies

While you can engage in many of these activities with your child, they may benefit from play activities being incorporated into their professional therapy sessions. When choosing a therapist to work with your child, make sure to do your research and discuss what kind of techniques they employ.

Ask about play therapy and the ways in which your child could benefit from different activities. Your child's therapists should have many more recommendations for other activities that provide your child with the therapy they require, while engaging them in a fun and creative way.

Consulting With an Attorney

Cerebral palsy can prove to be a very challenging condition, both for those affected and their parents, and the therapy alone can come with hefty price tags. Cerebral palsy can often be avoided through proper practice during delivery. It is a practitioner's responsibility to do everything within their power to ensure the health of you and your child. If your doctor failed in their duty, you may want to consult an attorney to pursue damages.

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Author: Katherine Webre

Katherine Webre

Member since: Oct 28, 2020
Published articles: 1

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