When your child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), there's a lot to learn.
You are faced with new terms like "special needs" and "early intervention." You have
to figure out health care and childcare, and find the best path forward for your child.
It's normal to feel overwhelmed. But don't worry — you're not as alone as you
might feel.
In fact, many resources and support services are available to you. Still, it can
be hard to know what's best for your child. This 8-step checklist can help you determine
which early steps to take to help your baby, toddler, or preschooler.
Step 1: Contact Early Intervention
Kids with special needs are entitled by federal law to extra support to help them
reach developmental milestones such as walking, talking, and self-feeding. These services
are called early intervention and can be offered by therapists at home, daycare, or
another facility.
Each state runs its own early intervention program. Ask your pediatrician for a
referral or visit the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center directory
for state-specific contact info.
Step 2: Consider Help at Home
Your child might have trouble eating and swallowing, have seizures, or need medicines
at regular times. In-home care from a medical professional can be helpful for your
child and give you a break from round-the-clock caregiving.
This type of care can be arranged through your hospital's care management team.
This team usually includes nurses and social workers, who can help you figure out
what type of help you need. You also can ask your child's doctor for a prescription
and referral for in-home help.
Contact your insurance company to find out whether you have coverage for this care.
Step 3: Look Into Medicaid
Even if you have private health insurance, your child might qualify for Medicaid,
the federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people with disabilities.
Medicaid can cover treatments that are not covered by your private carrier and can
help ease out-of-pocket medical costs.
