Because all children develop differently, it can be difficult to determine in the early years whether developmental concerns point to cerebral palsy. However, there is nothing like a parent’s intuition. If something is telling you that all is not quite right with your child, listen to yourself and speak with your child’s doctor immediately. It’s important to act on concerns right away, as early diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on the long-term impact of disabilities, as well as quality of life.

If your child shows any of the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy listed below, make an appointment with a doctor who specializes in cerebral palsy. The specialist will take a detailed medical history, and will follow up with a battery of diagnostic tests.

Symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe, and will vary depending upon the type of cerebral palsy. Common symptoms that are cause for concern in babies and young children include the following:

• Weak muscles
• Poor balance
• Imbalanced muscle tone, characterized by some tight muscles and some flaccid muscles
• Difficulty sitting due to poor muscle strength and tone
• Difficulty changing positions
• Jerky or twitching movements in the limbs or torso
• Persistent shaking
• Issues with both fine and gross motor skills
• Unconventional or awkward gait
• Issues related to the face or tongue, such as trouble sucking, persistent drooling, or difficulty forming sounds