Children with one-arm weakness adapt well to their daily activities if they are given a chance to try and practice skills. The downloadable booklet provides key strategies for different skills, tips and styles to make strategies easier and relevant developmental milestones to see how you child is doing with skills compared to other children the same age.
Download the booklet titled 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, they 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 they learn to problem-solve on their 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