Cerebal Palsy: If in Doubt, Check it Out Campaign
With every movement that your baby makes, your baby is learning and developing. Understanding how your baby or toddler is developing and what they should be doing at each stage is important. If you have any concerns about your child’s motor development, if your child is showing signs of developmental delay or displaying any of the warning signs, please speak with your Health Visitor or doctor.
What are the warning signs of cerebral palsy?
It is important to remember that babies develop in different ways and at different rates, but you should trust your instincts. If you have any concerns about your child’s movements or development, don’t panic, but check it out and speak to your doctor or health visitor. Key signs that you should seek advice are:
- Your baby feels floppy, stiff or a combination of these
- Your baby is not kicking their legs or moving their arms and legs up when lying down
- Your baby is not bringing her/his hands together
- Your baby is not using one side of their body as much as the other
- Your baby is distressed by or not reacting to movement, touch, sound or smell
- Your baby is not making eye contact or following movements with their head and eyes
- Your baby has difficulty feeding or swallowing
The Importance of Early Intervention
Between birth and 3 years of age, your baby’s brain is developing and growing very rapidly – more than at any other stage in life. As your baby moves, they are experiencing and learning about the world around them and so it is very important that if they are having problems with movements (sometimes called motor skills), they get expert help as soon as possible to minimize the impact on their learning and overall development.
Every child is unique and develops at different rates, but seeking early help will also enable you to get the support you need as a new parent and will help the wellbeing of the whole family. Click here to see a short video explanation about Cerebral Palsy. to see a short video explanation.
You can also learn more about the #ifindoubtcheckitout campaign at Action Cerebral Palsy's website here: Action Cerebral Palsy #ifindoubtcheckitout web page link
