Empowering Students with Cerebral Palsy: A Journey of Growth and Inclusion at TABIS

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that limit a person's ability to move, balance, and maintain posture. Cerebral refers to having a factor to do with the brain. Palsy is a term that describes muscle weakness or movement problems.

Cerebral palsy results from some specific typical brain growth or brain damage that interferes with a person's ability to control his or her muscles. Teaching a child with cerebral palsy can be challenging at first, but you can help them succeed when you know the best ways to help them learn. Knowing your student's individual needs will help you teach them successfully, whether you're a teacher, a teaching assistant, or a parent.

To empower the students with cerebral palsy the inclusive schools in Mumbai have inculcated the following pointers:

 1. Get to know how the student experiences their cerebral palsy:

 • Since each child with this condition has a unique experience, it's always a good idea to be aware of these before attempting to teach your student. Cerebral palsy may interfere with muscle control, tone, coordination, balance, and posture.

 • This can have an effect on fine and gross motor skills, as well as vision, speech, and hearing.

 • The consequences can range from challenges in learning to frequent seizures.

 2. A child with cerebral palsy can have an IEP (Individualised Education Plan).

 • Before teaching the child, become acquainted with the IEP. You will be able to provide the best care for the child this way.

 • This will also help you adapt your teaching style; you'll be able to involve the child as much as possible if you know their strengths and goals.

3. Offer writing alternatives for the student to demonstrate learning.

• If the student's handwriting remains difficult, lower expectations for copying, allow more time for written work, and consider using a dedicated word processor and writing software.

4.  Instead of asking for volunteers, select students at random.

• Inviting volunteers to help with problem-solving or discussions can result in exclusion, with only the most vocal and assertive students stepping forward.

• Make certain that all children are called upon, and encourage each student to participate in all activities.

5. Change up Instructional Methods

 • This is an excellent strategy for assisting all children.

• Teachers understand that each student learns differently, so they adjust the way content and instruction are presented to include every student.

• A child with cerebral palsy may struggle in ways that other kids do not, so it is crucial for them to experience variety.

• To reach each child, a variety of strategies can be used, including direct instruction, discussions in small groups, hands-on activities, quiet reading, watching videos, and using computers for learning.

 6. Lower the board if it's too high for the child

• If the child is in a wheelchair due to their condition, lowering the board can help them focus and learn better.

• If you are unable to lower the board, try changing the child's position or using other equipment when teaching.

 7. Get adapted equipment to help the child with independence.

• If your child has difficulty writing or typing, try a small laptop or an adapted keyboard. Alternatively, if they have difficulty reading, audio aids may be required.

• An OT can assess the child, determine his or her needs, and assist in locating the appropriate equipment for the child.

8. Cerebral Palsy with affected Speech

• Recommend speech therapy or provide it if the school has one.

• Suggest or provide speech therapy if the school has one.

• Some students have difficulty speaking due to hearing loss. Take into account getting hearing aids or cochlear implants.

• Utilise technology - There are numerous programs available to help students. There are options for communication tablets, microphones for projecting voice, recording devices for reviewing lessons, and voice-to-text software.

• When extensive writing is required, provide a scribe.

 Conclusion

In conclusion, Cerebral palsy is a complex condition that affects a person's motor skills due to brain-related issues. Understanding each student's unique experience with CP is essential for effective teaching. Inclusive schools in Mumbai have adopted strategies like individualized education plans, writing alternatives, random student selection, and varied instructional methods to empower students with CP. Adapting equipment, offering speech therapy, and using technology further enhance their learning experience. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, we can enable students with cerebral palsy to thrive and reach their full potential.