Christmas Gifts for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Motor Development

• Because cerebral palsy interferes with how the brain and body work together to move, toys that help develop motor skills make an engaging gift for a child with cerebral palsy. A small inflatable ball pit makes a great play area to jump around and play in while still having the support of the balls around the body. Children with good trunk control can continue to build that skill with riding toys such as child-size plastic cars and motorcycles.

Sensory Development

• Cerebral palsy can affect more than just physical development. It also affects speech and sensory development in some children. This Christmas, choose a gift that engages the child's senses. Look for a colorful shape sorter or a musical toys like a Simon Says machine for children whose attention tends to wander. Sensory balls covered in tiny soft nubs make ideal gifts for children with cerebral palsy. Use them during a catch-and-throw or other ball game. For a tactile gift, choose a set of play dough or modeling clay that is bright and colorful; some types are even scented! Choose a play dough or modeling clay with a consistency that complements the children's developmental abilities. For example, a child who has delayed fine motor skills will benefit from using a softer clay and graduating up to a firmer clay when able.

Speech Development

• A common developmental delay in children with cerebral palsy is speech development, but this shouldn't stop you from purchasing a gift that involves language. Children of all ages enjoy the act of sitting together for a story, so tailor your gift to the child's own developmental stage. Younger children can enjoy sign language videos or short story books. For an older child who may already be learning to read, look for an e-reader system that will read the compatible books out loud and help the child follow along when reading independently.

Cognitive Development

• Games that challenge the brain to think logically are highly beneficial to children with cerebral palsy, as they help focus the brain and build vital connections. Simple pathfinder toys -- toys where the child moves an object through a set of tunnels or along a twisting wire -- encourage this type of logical thinking. They can help children whose coordination and fine motor skills need practice. Many toy stores carry food cutting toys that introduce the concept of parts and whole.