|
CEREBRAL PALSY
Cerebral Palsy is caused by damage, around the time of birth, to the part of the brain controlling movement causing:
– writhing movements of the limbs or facial muscles
– an unsteady walk and problems with balance
Pupils with cerebral palsy are found within the full ability range. There is no cure but with the help of therapy most pupils remain stable.
DIFFICULTIES
– speech, language and communication
– poor balance
– fine and gross motor skills affecting presentation
– limited concentration
– distractibility
– limited sensory and tactile experience
– spatial and perceptual weaknesses
– copying from blackboard
– periods of tiredness
SUPPORT STRATEGIES
Ensure that:
– pupil has correct height of desk and chair
– when seated, pupil is able to rest feet on the floor
– pupil is near to and facing blackboard
– tasks are well structured, well ordered, clearly explained and varied
– pages are not too busy/sections not required and covered
– additional time is allowed for verbal responses
– volume of written work is limited – ICT can be used to support written work and maximise opportunities for self expression
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- a sloping bookstand may be useful when copying from book or work card
- switch interface may be required for ICT work
- if a marker is required, a black marker has been found to be more effective
- seek advice from speech and language therapist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist as appropriate
- good home-school liaison is required re inter-agency involvement
|
