Understanding Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological conditions affecting a person’s movement, balance, muscle tone, and coordination.

It’s often caused by differences in brain development or damage to the developing brain, usually before birth, during birth, or in early childhood. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition, but the way it affects a person can vary significantly. People with cerebral palsy have diverse strengths, abilities, and support needs and, with individualized supports and opportunities, can lead active, meaningful, and fulfilling lives.

A person with cerebral palsy may experience differences in areas, including:

• Walking, balance, or coordination
• Muscle tone, including muscles that are stiff, tight, or unusually relaxed
• Fine motor skills, such as writing, dressing, or using utensils
• Speech, communication, or swallowing
• Vision, hearing, learning, or sensory processing
• Completing daily activities independently

Cerebral palsy affects each person differently. Some individuals may require minimal support, while others may benefit from ongoing assistance or use mobility, adaptive, or communication devices. These supports help promote independence, participation, and self-determination.

Our Core Services

Every individual experiences life differently, and support needs often extend beyond a single diagnosis or condition.

The services below are designed to help individuals build skills, increase independence, strengthen community connections, and achieve personal goals throughout every stage of life.