UCEDD
University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Play for Cerebral Palsy

Playing with children with CP
Below are four different ways to support your child at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level 3. Please note that every child is unique along with their interests and they are the experts in play so use this as a guide but listen to them and their needs.

Floor-Based Play Sensory Play Fine Motor Play Mobility-Device Play References

Floor-Based Play

Floor-Based Play for WebFloor based play is a great setting to help support your child’s core strength and balance. This could include activities that have them reaching to either side for blocks to build a tower or target practice of rolling a ball to certain place. This positioning keeps them supported but provides just enough challenge to strengthen their balance too!

 

 

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Sensory Play

Sensory Play for WebIt can be helpful to incorporate different sensations into play to help support children’s sensory processing abilities. Research has found that sensory integration can support gross motor movement and balance. This could look like playing with different textures, using vibration during play, incorporating deep pressure and more.

 

 

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Supported Fine Motor Play

Supported Fine Motor PlayFine motor tasks can be challenging due to varying tone in their hands. Decrease the challenge of focusing on both fine motor skills and balance by having them lean against something or sit in a seat to reduce the effort and support their participation.

 

 

 

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Play with mobility device

Play with Mobility DeviceIf your child uses a mobility device such as a walker, encourage them to play games with their feet such as kicking a ball. Play like this incorporates their device in a positive way and encourages body awareness that is helpful when playing a physical game such as kickball.

 

 

 

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References