Children with cerebral palsy have special physical and medical needs. But they have emotional and social needs, too — and so do their families. At St. Louis Children’s Hospital, we believe these needs are just as important as medical care.
That’s why we integrate social work support into our care plan. At every visit, your social worker talks with you about any struggles or challenges — and shares resources to help.
Social and Emotional Support for Cerebral Palsy
Our goal is to provide answers and support to help you in all areas of life. No matter what your question or concern, your social worker will listen. You can ask them about anything during your visit.
Many families ask their social worker about:
- Respite care (care at home)
- School challenges
- Emotional support
- Financial and insurance questions
Resources for Parents and Caregivers
The following websites contain helpful information for families of children with cerebral palsy:
- CP NOW Foundation: This organization offers extensive information about diagnosis, treatment decisions and resources for daily life.
- Child Neurology Foundation — Family Support and Empowerment Program: This non-profit offers support to parents and caregivers of children with a neurologic diagnosis.
- Child Neurology Foundation — Respite Care Notebook: Families can print and complete forms about their child to use for respite (home) care.
Cerebral Palsy Resources for Missouri Residents
- St. Louis Arc Family Support: Support for families of children with disabilities. Includes information about respite care, support groups, family activities and more.
- Missouri Office of Special Education: Information from the state government about the Missouri special education system, evaluation for special education and common questions.
- Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services — Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program (CYSHCN): This program helps children with special health care needs get support and services. Please talk with your social worker about eligibility requirements for this program.
- Missouri Parents Act (MPACT): MPACT is a statewide organization that offers parents and professionals free, in-person and online trainings on the special education system. These are designed to empower you to advocate for a successful future for your child.
Cerebral Palsy Resources for Illinois Residents
- University of Illinois Division of Specialized Care for Children: This program provides free care coordination for families of children with special health care needs. Eligible children must be residents of the state of Illinois.
- Family Matters Parent Training & Information Center: A statewide organization that help parents and professionals with navigating the special education system in Illinois.
Talk With a Social Worker at the Cerebral Palsy Center
If you’re a new patient, you’ll need a referral for care at our Cerebral Palsy Center. Please ask your physician to send us a referral before your first visit. At your first appointment, you’ll meet our social worker. They will be an integral part of your care.
For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy, call 314.454.5437 or 800.678.5437, or email us.
