Where can parents get cerebral palsy information ?

Bringing up a child with developmental disabilities is one of the biggest challenges parents face. As the child grows, so do his/her needs, and coping with that requires some patience, energy and clear thinking. It’s the ‘fear of the unknown’ that grips parents when their child is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Till the doctor’s pronouncement, parents don’t like to believe what they are seeing –obvious signs that all is not well with their child; Milestones are not reached in time, motor skills are affected, spasticity sets in etc. In this ‘fear syndrome’ one misses the fact that the earlier a diagnosis is made; the earlier his physical, mental, emotional and social rehabilitation can begin.

What is needed is informed awareness on the part of the parents, and not guilt, fear, paranoia, self doubts. Learning about Cerebral Palsy begins with one’s own observations of the child’s developmental abilities and motor coordination. Be thorough about this.

Next, discuss these observations with your primary doctor or family physician, as he/she is referred to in India. This doctor will be able to answer quite a few of your queries, and will direct you to specialized people for confirmation, and to support groups. This is the time to ask questions, and seek answers. Cerebral Palsy Associations exist in every big city and can be reached directly. There exist Support Networks, Listed Disability Centres and, medical magazines.

Category recommended India site : http://www.nrcissi.org/ - The National Resource Centre for Inclusion.  - The Spastics Society of India.