Exercise regimens are extremely important for a child’s wellbeing, including for those with cerebral palsy. Although certain activities can be difficult for children with cerebral palsy, experts at Children’s Cerebral Palsy offer various activities to help kids with CP stay active. 

“It’s important for children with CP to stay active and keep moving, as this can help maintain mobility and movement for as long as possible,” said Dr. David Siambanes, a board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon and founder of Children’s Cerebral Palsy. “Through innovative activities and adaptive sports, parents can help maintain their child’s mobility and health while also having fun.”

To help improve movement and overall health, Dr. Siambanes suggests giving the following exercises and activities a try for children living with CP:

• • Hydrotherapy. Exercising in water is great for children with CP because it puts less stress on muscles and joints, as well as decreases a person’s body weight by 90 percent. This allows for a wider range of motion and improves cardiovascular conditioning since the heart pumps more blood per beat when the body is submerged in water.
  • Painting. To help people with CP strengthen their motor skills, painting is a great option. Not only will working fine motor skills help them be more precise and accurate in their movements, but painting helps children with CP focus on the art they’re creating rather than the energy they’re expending.
  • Adaptive sports. For children with CP unable to participate in traditional forms of popular games and sports, adapting these activities to meet their capabilities is a perfect way to build physical strength and self-esteem. Find a sport your child is interested in and consider ways to alter the rules or goals so they can participate fully. Check out CP Sport for a list of guidelines and resources for adapting particular sports.
  • Dancing. No matter your child’s condition or movement limitations, everyone can dance to music. Dance and rhythmic auditory stimulation benefits body functions like balance, gait, walking, and cardiorespiratory fitness for individuals with cerebral palsy.
  • Photography. Photography is a great activity that stimulates many different parts of the brain. It can help kids with cerebral palsy develop spatial awareness, express themselves creatively, and gain an appreciation for the outdoors. Additionally, learning to hold, point and shoot a camera can help further develop fine motor skills. 

Because all cases of CP are not the same, it’s best to take into consideration your child’s capabilities and strengths when deciding what activity to participate in. If you have questions about what activity is most appropriate, consult with your child’s primary care provider. If you have additional questions about how to keep your child with CP healthy and active, contact Children’s Cerebral Palsy today.