What happens when the child matures?
When thinking of the future for a child with cerebral palsy, it is important that parents keep a positive attitude, just as one would with any child. It is equally important to understand the child’s abilities. A parent’s hopes are likely a mix of realistic and unrealistic dreams for the child; professional help can enable the parent to adopt realistic goals. Often, a communication breakdown can occur when parents and health care experts discuss living with cerebral palsy. Improved communication between parents, physicians, and educators can enable a child to function at his or her utmost capability. Defining potential and ability is most critical during the teenage years and beyond, when the patient’s abilities are clearer to everyone involved.
