Cerebral palsy is a condition that makes every day of life a challenge. The simplest things such as eating, communicating and participating in activities can be a struggle. That is why when your niece or nephew with cerebral palsy comes to your home for a holiday gathering this year, you want to make sure the experience goes as smoothly as possible.

In general, individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) have poor balance and poor motor coordination. It is also common for many to use large medical equipment. These concerns often necessitate some forethought. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Scope out the grounds.
Due to the unsteady nature of a child with CP, some areas pose a threat if your niece begins to lose her balance. Stairs may need to be barricaded. Sharp edges on furniture may need to be cushioned, and a “buffer zone” may need to be set up around fireplaces. Also, beware of sharp knives that are within reach as well as pools and grills. All of these are potential hazards around the home for someone who could easily fall, grabbing at whatever is around her on the way.

Wheelchairs are often par for the course with CP. Do you have an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible for your nephew? If not, what will be the plan of action for bringing him in? Also, be sure to create wide pathways throughout your home. They are necessary for his wheels to move from room to room. This way, your sweet little one doesn’t become restricted to one area, limiting his ability to interact throughout the day. He can roam where most everyone else roams, and this goes a long way in making him feel welcome.

2. Feed the soul.
We all have heard that the fastest way to the heart is through the stomach. Imagine the thankfulness felt by not only your niece but also her parents when you offer to take on the responsibility of preparing some of the special dietary needs of your kiddo.

Difficulty with swallowing mechanisms sometimes make meals a special case, making easily swallowed foods a must have. Mashed sweet potatoes, minced meats, minced or pureed green beans, macaroni and cheese and cranberry sauce can all blend in nicely with everyone else’s choice of holiday foods. Providing baby eating utensils, sippy cups and your nephew’s preferred beverage is also extremely helpful to your nephew’s family, which probably already has an excessive checklist of items to bring to your family affair.

3. A friend in need.
Human nature often puts physically challenged kids at a disadvantage socially as well. For this reason, your niece may need a little assistance in drawing other children for interaction. To even the playing field a bit, a workspace could be set up where crayons, coloring books, scissors, paper, and glue are the main attraction. While you are assisting your precious niece in a craft, expect other little people to flock to your area. When they do, encourage interaction through sharing supplies and show-and-telling the finished product.

Don’t underestimate the power of bubbles and balls, either. These tools are sure to have magnetic appeal for other children when they see you entertaining your nephew with them.

4. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
No one wants to hear it, but on occasion bad things do happen. You want to be ready should things go down that road. For example, it is great to have a change of clothes for your nephew in case he does not make it to the restroom on time or if he has a particularly messy fall. Also, if there are any other health conditions (such as food allergies or epilepsy) in addition to his CP, you will want to have his needed emergency items on hand and know how to handle the situation should it arise. This, alongside learning any emergency-oriented sign language your nephew might use to cry out for help, will put you in a confident position no matter what comes your way.

 That little one in your life has given you so much for which you are thankful. Giving him or her an environment that enables incorporation rather than intimidation is a perfect way to say “I love you” during this season.

J.L. Knopp is a freelance writer and blogger.

Published: November 30, 2010