The Understanding Early Detection of Cerebral Palsy Handbook is a supportive resource designed specifically for parents whose infants may be at risk for cerebral palsy (CP), taking a similar approach to providing empowering information as our earlier resources did for the CP community: the award-winning CP Toolkit — From Diagnosis to Understanding and The Adult Cerebral Palsy Tool Kit. Created by a team of physicians, researchers, therapists, and parents — including CP Research Network parent co-founder Michele Shusterman — this handbook draws on lived experience and current clinical consensus to meet families exactly where they are, whether during a NICU stay, right after coming home, or during early follow-up appointments.
The handbook will help you understand what cerebral palsy is and what a CP diagnosis means, why early detection matters, and how CP is identified and assessed in infancy. It also covers hands-on ways to support your baby’s development, how to access early intervention services, and how to care for your own emotional wellbeing during this uncertain time. You’ll find real parent reflections, a glossary of the specialists your family may encounter, and a curated list of trusted support resources.
There are four ways to get access to the Early Detection Handbook:
- Purchase the toolkit on Amazon;
- Either join MyCP (our free online resource portal) (login if you are already a member);
- Complete the form below to subscribe and receive the Early Detection Handbook via email.
- Request an alternate format, e.g., screen reader compatible.
