Cerebral Palsy is a group of neurological disorders caused by brain damage which causes disabilities in movement, balance and posture. 

Brain damage is the cause of CP, but there are many different things that can trigger damage. For this reason, the exact cause of cerebral palsy cannot always be determined. Possibilities include:

• Poor brain development in the womb
• Maternal infections or medical conditions
• Disruption of blood flow to the developing brain
• Genetic conditions
• Ingestion of toxins or drugs during pregnancy
• Damage to the head or skull during delivery
• Complications related to premature delivery

Children with cerebral palsy will not be able to access schools unless there are architectural modifications and design features that provide a lift and ramps, accessible surfaces, modified toilets with wider doors and enough space to manoeuvre the wheelchair. They will not be able to cope with the syllabus unless there is scope for modifications in the curriculum such as alternatives to handwriting, extra time for tasks, provision of augmentative and alternative communication devices, inclusive sports and other co-curricular activities. Most important are attitudinal factors – sensitivity, respect for diversity and difference and open-ness to change.

Statistics: Cerebral Palsy

World – 2 to 4 per 1000 live births 

India – 3 cases per 1000 live births