Early Signs and Support for Cerebral Palsy: Guidance for Parents from the
Neonatal Follow-Up Team

Premature birth increases the risk for various medical conditions, including cerebral palsy (CP). Preterm babies often face developmental challenges due to their incomplete physical and nervous system development, which can lead to complications like breathing difficulties and increased susceptibility to infections.

Although not all preterm babies will develop CP, a significant proportion of children with CP are born prematurely. Factors like periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), a form of brain injury linked to preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW – means a baby was born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces/2 500 grams)

Rates decrease significantly with increasing gestational age according to The Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network (CNFUN).

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In babies younger than 6 months, symptoms of cerebral palsy may include:

• being unable to hold their head up if picked up from lying on their back

• stiff or floppy limbs

• their legs cross or feel stiff when picked up

• extending their back and neck away from a person when held, as if pushing away

In babies older than 6 months, symptoms may include:

• being unable to roll over

• being unable to bring their hands to their mouth

• difficulty bringing their hands together

• reaching out with one hand and keeping the other hand in a fist

In babies older than 10 months, symptoms may include:

• crawling in a lopsided way, such as using one hand and leg to push while dragging the opposite hand and leg

• scooting around on their buttocks or hopping on their knees rather than crawling on all fours

• being unable to stand, even when holding on to something for support

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A baby’s early years are crucial for neurodevelopment, and early diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy (CP) can help maximize a baby’s development. If there is a concern for CP, your neonatal team will continue to monitor your baby and can do the following:

• Review the pregnancy and the baby’s medical history and perform a physical examination.

• Assess baby’s development and motor skills using tools such as the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Exam (HINE) and the General Movements Assessment (GMA). These tools can be used in babies as young as 2 months old. These tools for assessment are a Canadian innovation.

The healthcare team will tailor a specific plan for your child, which may include:

• Referral to a specialist

• Targeted early intervention and support with: Therapies that can help improve motor skills and physical development, such as physical and occupational therapy

• Ask Questions – Your Neonatal Follow-up Clinic team is there for you.

• Work with your early intervention team – This will support your child’s development.

• Build your Support Network – Connect with other parents, support groups.

Take a breath. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. The first step is to give yourself space to process. You're not alone—there’s a supportive community and resources, like the free Cerebral Palsy Tool Kit,created by parents and professionals, to help you understand the diagnosis and what comes next. Join our Parent Support Group or PAL group on FB.

Yes. Every parent processes a diagnosis differently. Grieving, uncertainty, even anger or confusion, are all part of this journey. Give yourself and your family time.

Focus on your child as a whole person, not just their CP. Build routines that include fun, tradition, connection, and joy. Small everyday moments—like laughing together or spending time without focusing on therapy—matter just as much as appointments and progress charts.

Accept that some things may be outside of your control, but many are not. Celebrate what can be done—whether it’s your child’s joy in a game, learning a new skill, or your own growth as their advocate. Let your child guide some of their own journey, and focus on their potential, not comparisons.

Trust your instincts. You are the expert on your child. If something doesn’t feel right, ask questions or seek a second opinion. A good provider will respect your voice and value your observations. Advocacy starts with believing your role matters—and it does.

Advocacy is a learning curve. You’ll grow more confident over time. Start by observing your child, asking questions, and connecting with other parents. You don’t have to do everything at once. Your insight will become one of the most valuable tools in your child’s care.

Absolutely. Seeking support—whether it’s therapy, parent groups, or simply honest conversations—is healthy. You deserve care too. A stronger, more supported you is the best gift you can give your child.

Even a few minutes of undivided attention—reading a book, playing a game, listening about their day—go a long way. Sibling support groups, trusted adults, or therapists can help them express and process their own feelings too. Your presence matters more than perfection.