Art

Some children with cerebral palsy may have missed pre-writing developmental activities due to a focus on developing their gross motor movement. Children will try to find a comfortable and stable position for drawing. This might be sitting, standing or lying. Generally, short and fat equipment, i.e. chunky pencils and crayons, are easier to use than long and thin implements. https://www.niso.org/standards/z39-96/ns/oasis-exchange/table">

Younger children

Older pupils

Try:

chunky chalks/pastels;

thicker and shorter-handled paint brushes, including shaving brushes/decorating brushes;

working at an easel or an adjustable-angled table may be easier to use for a wheelchair user;

‘T-bar’ brush holders;

non-tip paint pots/holders;

using clips/Dycem™ to keep work in place;

printing with stamps rather than painting.

Art/CAD apps to support design aspects;

use ‘clip art’/scanned images to support art modules;

stabilise paper with clips or Blu-Tack;

use non-slip matting to secure equipment;

place paint pots in holders;

ensure the appropriate specialist scissors are available;

ensure correct seating is used; stools may compromise balance (seek advice).