“We help children with developmental challenges move, learn, and communicate to become more confident, independent and live their best lives!”
Understanding Cerebral Palsy
How Physical, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy in Raritan, NJ Can Help Your Child
When a child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy, it means they are experiencing an impairment within the area of the brain that controls their movement and muscle tone. While many children with cerebral palsy do not experience any alterations to their mental development, their motor control and mobility are greatly affected.
Cerebral palsy develops due to damage, trauma, or malformation of the child’s brain. This typically occurs during pregnancy but may also occur during delivery or shortly after birth. Premature babies are at a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy, as are those who develop severe jaundice or other illnesses/injuries that affect the brain during infancy.
The severity of cerebral palsy development varies from child to child. For example, some children may experience subtle falters or stumbling when walking, while others may be unable to walk at all. If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, don’t feel defeated – physical and occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help! Even if you have experienced therapy before, learn more about Kid PT and how our approach can help overcome barriers you didn’t think was possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child improve and maximize abilities!
Common Symptoms Associated With Cerebral Palsy
A condition called “hemiparesis” is common with cerebral palsy. This occurs when a child has poor motor control of the arm and leg on the same side of the body. “Diplegia” may also occur, wherein the child experiences paralysis of both arms or both legs.
Hypertonia or hypotonia are also common symptoms associated with cerebral palsy. Hypertonia occurs when muscle tone is increased, also known as spasticity. Hypotonia occurs when muscle tone is abnormally floppy. A child with either of these conditions may have issues with speech, although their ability to understand it usually is not impacted. Speech therapy for cerebral palsy focuses on breath control and motor planning to help children produce clearer sounds or use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.
There are several factors that may indicate that your child is living with cerebral palsy, and these factors can be determined early on in infancy.
6 Months and Under Potential Factors:
- The baby feels stiff.
- The baby feels floppy.
- The head of the baby lags when being picked up.
- The baby’s legs get stiff or cross in a “scissor” motion when being picked up.
- The baby’s neck and back overextend when being cradled.
Over 6 Months Potential Factors:
- The baby only reaches with one hand, while the other remains fisted.
- The baby continues to overextend his or her neck and back.
Over 10 Months Potential Factors:
- The baby does not crawl on all fours. Common accommodations that the baby will make include scooting around on the buttocks or hopping on the knees.
- The way in which the baby crawls is lopsided. For example, the baby may push with the same arm and leg on one side of the body, while the arm and leg on the other side of the body are being dragged.
- The baby is not able to crawl at all.
Your Child’s Potential Is Limitless—Let’s Unlock It Together
At Kid PT in Raritan, NJ, we understand that every child with cerebral palsy is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and dreams. Our mission is to help your child unlock their full potential by providing cutting-edge therapy, individualized care, and unwavering support—all in an environment designed to inspire confidence and growth.
Holistic, Child-Centered Approach
We focus on your child as a whole, not just their diagnosis. By combining expert therapy techniques with a deep understanding of child development, we create treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs and goals. Our team collaborates with you every step of the way, ensuring therapy aligns with your child’s abilities, family priorities, and future aspirations.
Innovative, Evidence-Based Therapies
At Kid PT, we stay ahead of the curve with the latest research and techniques proven to help children with cerebral palsy make measurable progress. From neuroplasticity-based interventions to advanced movement training, our therapists use tools and strategies that target mobility, strength, coordination, and independence—maximizing your child’s potential for improvement.
One innovative approach is Total Motion Release (TMR), a hands-on therapy that helps children use their stronger, more functional movements to support and improve areas with limitations. TMR encourages natural, pain-free motions, making it particularly effective for reducing tension, enhancing balance, and promoting overall mobility in children with cerebral palsy.
Play-Driven Progress
We believe therapy should be engaging and empowering. Our sessions are designed to feel like play, using fun activities that motivate children to explore their abilities while working toward their goals. By integrating movement into play, children achieve breakthroughs they didn’t think possible—without feeling like they’re “working.”
Expert Team, Deeply Committed to Your Child’s Success
Our therapists bring years of experience and specialized training in pediatric rehabilitation, with a particular focus on children with cerebral palsy. But beyond expertise, it’s our passion that sets us apart. We care about your child’s journey, celebrating every milestone, no matter how small, as a step toward greater independence and confidence.
Comprehensive Support for the Whole Family
Navigating cerebral palsy care can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We provide education, resources, and guidance to empower your family. Whether you need tips for home exercises or help advocating for school accommodations, we’re here to support you beyond the therapy room.
Results You Can See and Feel
At Kid PT, progress is more than a promise—it’s a reality. Our results-driven approach ensures that each child achieves milestones that matter most to them, whether it’s walking independently, mastering self-care tasks, or simply playing with friends. Parents consistently share how our therapies have transformed their child’s abilities and confidence in ways they hadn’t imagined possible.
When you choose Kid PT, you’re choosing more than a therapy center—you’re choosing a partner who believes in your child’s abilities and shares your vision for their future. Let’s work together to turn challenges into opportunities and help your child soar.
Contact Kid PT today:
If you are searching for pediatric therapy for cerebral palsy in Raritan, NJ or the nearby area, Kid PT can help. Even if your child is currently in therapy or you think you’ve tried it all, come meet with our team to learn how we are different.
We can help your child maintain the function he or she already has and work toward improving motor function overall. If your child has not yet been diagnosed with cerebral palsy but you suspect that he or she may be showing signs, it is likely that your child will undergo a CT or MRI scan of the head to check for brain abnormalities.
A physical examination will also test your child’s reflexes and motor functions. From there, an individualized treatment plan will be made specifically for your child based on the severity of the condition and the unique goals that must be met for your child.
At Kid PT, we are dedicated to helping your child build functional skills that enhance their independence and enrich family life. For pediatric physical and occupational therapy in Raritan, NJ, contact us today.
Start Your Child’s Journey To Success
Kid PT Is Helping Kids Move, Learn, And Thrive In Raritan, NJ And Central Jersey
Schedule Your Discovery Session
Take the first step by reaching out to our team. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you on how to begin.
Create A Plan
Work with our experienced therapists to develop a personalized plan that meets your child’s unique needs and sets achievable goals.
Watch Them Thrive
See your child gain skills, confidence, and independence as they reach milestones you once thought were out of reach.