Advice & Support Family Activities

Family Activities

With some planning and creative thought,  there are many activities the entire family can enjoy together. These family activities will help foster your child’s independence  and establish stronger bonds between all members of the family.   Further, research shows that these activities can be an effective way of triggering neuroplastic processes necessary for the development of sensorimotor skills in children with cerebral palsy. Think of it as therapy disguised as fun.

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Physical Activities

A great way to help your child improve his or her mobility and foster interaction with your family is by getting active. Here are things you can do at home or outside while getting fresh air.  Does your child need some extra support or equipment in order to participate in recreational activities?  Sign up for the CP Smile Project to receive a bursary to support your child’s ability to engage in play and participate in their community.

Whether you enjoy boccia or bocce ball, bike riding, going to the local community pool, or walking in nature, engaging in recreational activities with your child will build strength and improve your mood. Need to provide an outlet for your child on a rainy day? Try a Fold & Go Trampoline which is equipped with a balance bar which makes it a safe and enjoyable activity. Or try inflating a large beach ball to safely throw and kick in the living room. Be creative and adapt the activity as needed so everyone can participate and have fun. 

Creative and Game Activities

Improving coordination and fine motor skills is essential for a child with CP as grasping objects and other fine motor skills can be challenging. Creative activities, as well as games are great for the family to work together and can also help with cognitive development. In addition to the suggestions below, adaptive toys are available from various suppliers such as www.littlejtoys.ca.

Work with your child to sort objects like blocks or balls into containers by colour, size or shape. This helps develop spatial and pattern recognition while practicing fine motor skills. Start small and build on the number of objects to be sorted, keeping it fun and playful.

Looking to connect with families who understand what you're going through?

Join the CP Support Canada Facebook Parent Group.

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CP Smile Project

The CP Smile Project is a community project that helps ensure children with cerebral palsy have access to recreational opportunities that allow them to engage in play and community involvement. We give monthly bursaries to families to help them provide the support needed for their child to engage in play and have fun.