10 Questions Parents Have After a Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis

Receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis for your child can feel overwhelming. In an instant, you have countless questions. What is your child's future? What are the treatment options? What should you do next? The medical terminology seems endless, and every answer seems to lead to more questions.

You're not alone in feeling this way. Many parents say the days after diagnosis were a whirlwind of emotions and info. But understanding what to ask and getting clear answers can help you move forward with confidence.

That's why we've gathered expert answers to the ten most common questions parents have after a cerebral palsy diagnosis. To learn even more, read our comprehensive guide on cerebral palsy care. 

1. What Exactly Is Cerebral Palsy and What Caused It?

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders. They affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It's caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, most often before or during birth. CP affects muscle control and coordination. Its impact varies greatly between people.

The exact cause of CP isn't always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Lack of oxygen to the brain during pregnancy or birth
• Infections during pregnancy
• Premature birth
• Genetic conditions
• Stroke before, during, or shortly after birth

As Parents, you may also want to read about the early signs and symptoms of Cerebral Palsy.

2. Will My Child Be Able to Walk/Talk/Live Independently?

Every child with cerebral palsy develops differently. Their abilities depend on the type and severity of their condition. Many children with CP walk independently or with assistance, while others may use mobility devices. Similarly, some children have no speech difficulties, while others may benefit from communication support.

The key is to focus on your child's individual potential rather than comparing them to others. Early intervention and consistent support can significantly impact development. Discover how specialized care can support your child's development.

3. What Immediate Steps Should We Take?

The first step is to form a care team and start early intervention services. Start by scheduling appointments with key specialists, including a pediatric neurologist, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. Early intervention is crucial for maximizing your child's potential.

Your immediate action items should include:

• Scheduling evaluations with specialists
• Learning about early intervention programs
• Understanding your insurance coverage
• Connecting with support resources

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Services like medical daycare provide comprehensive nursing for your child’s needs, coordinate doctors, and more. We’re here to help!

4. What Therapies Will My Child Need?

Most children with cerebral palsy benefit from a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Physical therapy improves movement and strength. Occupational therapy helps with daily living skills. Speech therapy addresses communication and feeding issues.

The specific therapy plan will be tailored to your child's needs and may include:

• Physical therapy for mobility and strength
• Occupational therapy for daily skills
• Speech therapy for communication
• Feeding therapy if needed
• Additional specialized treatments based on symptoms

At Spark Pediatrics, we integrate all your child’s therapies under one roof so they get the care they need without putting more on your plate. 

5. How Will This Affect Our Family Life?

A cerebral palsy diagnosis impacts the whole family, but with the right support, many families find a positive new normal. Adjustments will be needed to manage medical appointments and care. Support services can also help maintain balance.

We understand this journey affects everyone in your family. That's why we offer:

• Flexible scheduling for working parents
• Sibling support resources
• Family counseling referrals
• Parent support groups
• Free tours to see our facilities and staff

6. What Financial Support Is Available?

Many families qualify for help from Medicaid, SSI, and other programs. In fact, medical daycare services are often fully covered by Medicaid, ensuring your child gets the care they need without financial strain.

Available support options include:

• Medicaid coverage
• SSI benefits
• State-specific programs
• Non-profit organizations
• Private insurance coverage

With Spark, we help navigate your insurance so you get full coverage without all the headache. Contact us to see if you qualify for 100% free medical daycare.

7. How Do We Choose the Right Care Setting?

The right care setting combines medical expertise with developmental support. Options range from doing everything yourself or hiring a private nurse to using a medical daycare like Spark. Medical daycares (PPECs) offer a unique solution, providing skilled nursing care alongside therapeutic services and socialization opportunities. This comprehensive approach supports both medical needs and childhood development.

Consider these factors when choosing care:

• Medical staff qualifications
• Therapy services available
• Staff-to-child ratios
• Emergency protocols
• Communication systems

8. What Should We Tell Family and Friends?

Share information about cerebral palsy at your own pace and comfort level. Focus on educating close family members first about your child's specific needs and how they can help. Remember, you don't owe everyone detailed explanations.

Tips for communicating with others:

• Start with basic information. For example, tell them what Cerebral Palsy is and gently correct any misconceptions they have.
• Share resources when asked. Physiopedia and Cleveland Clinic are full of great information
• Set clear boundaries. Let them know what’s okay and not okay. They’ll appreciate the guidance. 
• Express specific support needs.

9. How Can We Track Progress and Development?

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Keeping track of your child's progress with cerebral palsy (CP) is important. It helps you and your doctors know what's working and what needs more help. Here's how you can do it:

Regular Check-ups

Visit your child's doctor every 3-6 months

Ask about tests that measure how your child moves and uses their hands

Get written reports that show what's improved and what needs more work

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Keep a Daily Journal:

Write down what you see your child do each da

Use a notebook or a phone app to keep track. 

Notice even small improvements, like holding a toy for a bit longer

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Watch for New Skills:

• Moving: Note if your child can sit, crawl, or walk better

• Talking: Write down new words or ways they communicate

• Daily Tasks: Keep track of how they're doing with eating, dressing, or using the bathroom

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Set Goals with Therapists:

• Work with your child's therapists to set clear, reachable goals

• For example: "By next month, Sam will hold a spoon for 10 seconds"

• Check these goals often and update them

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Use Pictures and Videos:

• Take photos or videos each month to see changes over time. Look for __-

• Make a chart on the wall to show progress

• Use stickers on a calendar to mark big moments

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Work with Your Medical Team:

• Keep a list of all doctor visits and what happened

• Save all test results and reports in a folder

• Tell doctors what you've seen at home

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Remember, progress might be slow sometimes. It's okay. Every small step forward is worth celebrating. Your careful tracking helps your child's doctors give the best care possible.

10. Where Can We Find Support and Resources?

Support comes in many forms. It includes medical professionals, parent groups, and specialized care centers. Building a strong support network helps both your child and your family thrive on this journey.

Essential resources include:

• Medical professionals
• Therapy providers
• Parent support groups
• Online communities
• Local advocacy organizations

Moving Forward with Hope

A cerebral palsy diagnosis brings challenges. But, it opens doors to care and support that can help your child thrive. Every small step forward is a victory worth celebrating, and you don't have to navigate this journey alone.

Ready to learn more about how we can support your child? Schedule a consultation today.

Remember, the early days after diagnosis are often the most overwhelming. Take things one day at a time, celebrate small victories, and know that support is available whenever you need it. Contact us to discuss your child's specific needs.

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