Exploring Ways to Engage Children with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a term used for a group of nonprogressive, incurable brain disorders that affect motor control. There are four different types―spastic, dyskinetic/athetoid, ataxic, and mixed―with spastic being the most common. The main symptom of spastic cerebral palsy is stiff muscles. The subtypes are categorized by the number of limbs affected and the quality of movement. The affected limb(s) of individuals with dyskinetic cerebral palsy make uncontrollable writhing movements, individuals with ataxic cerebral palsy have poor balance and coordination, and individuals with mixed cerebral palsy have symptoms of two or more types. Many children with cerebral palsy have difficulty using their hands for tasks; however, toys have a significant impact on a child's cognitive, social, and physical development. This paper explores the possibility of using the Boardmaker® Plus! special needs educational software to develop an interface to provide alternative access to toys.