Brachial Plexus Palsy: Skills for Daily Living

I can do it myself! Dressing and other daily living skills for children with one-arm weakness [PDF]

This booklet offers strategies and tips to help children with one-arm weakness adapt to their daily activities, including:

• getting dressed
• personal hygiene
• preparing meals
• schoolwork
• sports and leisure activities

Children with one-arm weakness need the chance to practice these skills. At first, your child may need extra time to finish a task due to weak muscles. At other times, he may need to learn new ways to accomplish tasks. Some children may also need to learn how to use special tools to help them accomplish certain tasks.

It is important to be patient. Sometimes this means allowing your child to struggle as he learns to problem-solve on his own. The reward is a child who is confident and capable.

This booklet has been written for parents, caregivers, therapists, and teachers of children with obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (OBPP). However, it can also be used for other children with one-arm weakness. This booklet can be used for children with:

• brachial plexus palsy
• cerebral palsy (hemiplegia)
• stroke
• one-sided congenital hand difference

Download booklet [PDF]