Occupational Therapy for Cerebral Palsy

At Evolve Therapy Services, we provide occupational therapy tailored to children living with cerebral palsy. Our experienced paediatric occupational therapists work closely with families to support independence, build everyday functional skills, and improve participation in home, school, and community life.

We understand that every child with cerebral palsy has different needs. Whether your child experiences spasticity, coordination challenges, or sensory processing differences, we offer practical, evidence-based support that’s personalised to their goals and development.

Supporting Different Types of Cerebral Palsy

There are several types of cerebral palsy, each with therapy needs. Our team adapts its approach depending on the type and presentation:

• Spastic Cerebral Palsy: Focus on managing muscle tone, improving fine motor control, and supporting functional movement in daily tasks.
• Ataxic Cerebral Palsy: Emphasis on balance, coordination and controlled movement.
• Dyskinetic or Athetoid Cerebral Palsy: Support with motor planning, posture and adapting tasks for fluctuating tone and movement.
• Mixed-Type Cerebral Palsy: Tailored interventions that address multiple co-occurring motor challenges.

Occupational Therapy Approaches for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Our therapy sessions are designed to be engaging, functional, and adaptable. Depending on your child’s needs, OTs can utilise interventions such as:

• Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT): Encourages use of the affected limb by limiting use of the stronger side to build strength, control and confidence.
• Sensory Integration Therapy: Helps children with sensory processing challenges respond more comfortably to touch, movement and other input.
• Visual-Perceptual Training: Supports skills like tracking, scanning and interpreting visual information — essential for everyday tasks.
• Activities of Daily Living Practice: Builds independence in tasks such as dressing, feeding, toileting or using cutlery.
• Positioning and Seating Support: Promotes postural stability for play, learning and self-care.

Early Intervention for Cerebral Palsy

Starting occupational therapy early can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes for children with cerebral palsy. We focus on building strong foundations for movement, self-care and participation through age appropriate and developmentally informed strategies.

Our early intervention OT services support:

• Skill development during critical periods of growth
• Goal-setting with families aligned with NDIS Early Childhood Approach
• Maximising neuroplasticity through targeted and timely interventions

Assistive Equipment and Technology

For some children, assistive devices can enhance independence and reduce barriers to participation. We assess and recommend appropriate equipment to support your child’s needs, such as:

• Adaptive cutlery, dressing tools, and handwriting aids
• Seating systems or standing frames
• Communication devices or switch-access tech
• Visual or sensory aids for home and classroom use
• Our goal is to ensure equipment is practical, accessible, and truly helpful in everyday routines.
• Ongoing Support and Progress Monitoring

As your child grows, their needs may change. We provide regular assessments and therapy reviews to track progress, adjust goals and ensure therapy remains aligned with your child’s development and circumstances.

Whether your child is just beginning their early intervention journey or transitioning into more complex daily routines, we’re here to support them every step of the way.