Coaching, Learning, Empowerment in Cerebral Palsy - a 6-Week Integrated PT/OT Caregiver "Primer" Bootcamp for Infants Diagnosed With or at High Risk for Cerebral Palsy

This program aims to provide caregivers with structured education and practical skills related to early intervention of cerebral palsy. Session content includes: (1) understanding the definition and nature of cerebral palsy; (2) the importance of early intervention and principles of infant neuroplasticity; and (3) foundational early motor strategies and CP-specific therapeutic principles commonly used in PT and OT. Sessions incorporate therapist demonstration, caregiver coaching, and guided motor play with the infant. In addition to knowledge-building, the intervention also aims to provide intentional caregiver support following the early diagnosis of CP, and achieves this via fostering peer support among families with similar experiences, and empowering caregivers in navigating and advocating within their child's early intervention system. Outcomes will be assessed through pre- and post-intervention parental Likert-scale surveys measuring (1) caregiver perceived knowledge, comfort, and confidence interacting with their infant, (2) perceived benefit of the group program, and (3) caregiver readiness to actively engage in ongoing longitudinal CP-specific early intervention.

Inclusion criteria

• Infants 3-15 months corrected age at enrollment
• Diagnosed with CP or at high possibility of CP
• Not yet independently walking at baseline
• Medically stable for therapeutic handling and group play
• Primary caregiver (>=18years) able to attend all weekly group sessions
• English-speaking only

Exclusion criteria

• Unstable medical condition (eg, frequent desaturations, emeses, uncontrolled seizures) or acute restrictions incompatible with participation
• Concurrent enrollment in another intensive motor program
• Profound sensory impairments that preclude group program participation