Definition: A grouping of non-progressive motor conditions in which brain damage results in the loss or impairment of body movement, reflexes, balance, muscle control, muscle coordination, muscle tone, and posture (Attorneys, 2016). This neurological disorder often develops as the result of a brain injury inflicted before, during, or after delivery. In the term cerebral palsy, “cerebral” refers to the cerebrum, which is the affected area of the brain, and “palsy” refers to any of the resulting movement disorders. (Attorneys, 2016).

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Causes: Illness during pregnancy, premature delivery, lack of oxygen supply to the fetus, lead poisoning, illness early in the infant’s life, and child abuse.

Motor Development Activities to Consider:

Provide stretching exercises before and after strengthening or endurance activities. Physical fitness activities, which includes most sports, to strengthen large and small

group muscles. In track and field activities consider using a soft discuss and shot put. When riding bicycles or tricycles utilize adapted equipment (i.e., modified seats, straps or

velcro to keep feet on pedals, upper body supports). In bowling/bocce type activities use ramp and/or bumpers when appropriate. In soccer use wheelchair foot rest or racquet type implement to “kick” the ball. In baseball use plastic or foam bat and ball placed on a cone or suspended on a string Use manual (hand or foot propelled) wheelchair maneuvers to build strength (e.g., 20M

dash). Use motorized wheelchair maneuvers (e.g., slalom racing). Use aquatic activities. Ideal water temperature for spastic muscles is between 90 and 93

degrees F. If water is cooler, a hot shower or bath after swimming may help with muscle tightness.

Rhythmic activities (gentle rocking and/or rolling on a therapy ball, balance board, swing, etc.).

Use rhythm and dance activities to enhance postural relations. Use tetherball and/or balloon activities. Horseback riding is excellent for all types of cerebral palsy (contact NARHA for riding

facility near you). Provide conscious relaxation exercises.

Adaptations to Activities:

Equipment:Larger/lighter batUse of VelcroLarger goal/targetMark positions on playing fieldLower goal/targetScoops for catchingVary balls (size, weight, color, texture) Actions:Change locomotor patternsModify graspsModify body positionsReduce number of actionsUse different body parts

Boundary/Playing Field:Decrease distanceUse well-defined boundariesSimplify patternsAdapt playing area (smaller, obstacles removed)Rules Prompts, Cues:Demonstrate/model activityPartner assistedDisregard time limitsOral promptMore space between studentsEliminate outs/strike-outsAllow ball to remain stationaryAllow batter to sit in chair

Place student with disability near teacher

APENS Related Competencies:

Standard 1: Human Development

Understand that developmental disabilities may be caused by chromosomal aberrations; gestational disorders; degenerative disorders; mineral, nutritional, endocrine, and mineral dysfunction; infections and intoxicants, and environmental factors 1.06.01.01

Standard 2: Motor Behavior

Understand the influences of perceptual-motor programs that emphasize cognitive and perceptual abilities among individuals with disabilities 2.01.05.01.

Understand variance in “motor milestones” such as typical or average age of achievement for individuals with disabilities 2.01.08.01.

Standard 6: Unique Attributes of Learners

Understand the possible motor skill performance and learning problems such as difficulty acquiring locomotor and object control skills 6.01.01.02.

References

Attorneys. M. (2016). About Cerebral Palsy: Michigan Cerebral Palsy Attorneys. Retrieved March 01, 2016, from http://www.michigancerebralpalsyattorneys.com/about-cerebral-palsy/

French, R. (2007). Cerebral Palsy APE Fact Sheet http://www.twu.edu/downloads/kinesiology/Cerebral_Palsy.pdf

Zielger, R. (2007, September). Adaptive Physical Activity for Students with Cerebral Palsy. Retrieved March 01, 2016, from http://www.pelinks4u.org/articles/stopka/oct07_a.htm