Choosing the right clothes for children with Cerebral Palsy

When it comes to dressing children with Cerebral Palsy (CP), choosing the right clothing goes far beyond style and fashion. In this blog, SpecialKids Company aims to help parents navigate choosing the right clothing for their child, ensuring that they feel comfortable, confident, and ready to tackle the day.

Prioritise Comfort

Children with CP often experience muscle tightness, spasms and joint pain, so comfort is essential when selecting clothing. Look for soft fabrics that do not irritate the skin, such as cotton. Avoid scratchy tags, seams, or stiff fabrics that can be uncomfortable when a child is sitting in a wheelchair or engaging in other activities. You can find a range of tag free and top seam stitched clothing for children on our website.

Adaptive Clothing for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Adaptive clothing makes dressing easier while still being fashionable. For children with CP it can make a significant difference, offering convenience, comfort, and accessibility. Features often include:

● Easy-Access Closures: Instead of buttons, zippers, or complicated fasteners, look
for clothes with Velcro, magnets, or easy-to-use snaps that allow for quick dressing.
● Open-back designs: These are great for children with limited mobility as they allow
parents to dress the child with minimal assistance.

SpecialKids Company offers a range of adaptive clothing for children with cerebral palsy that provides comfort, accessibility, and style.

Consider your Child’s Mobility and Posture

CP affects how a child moves and maintains posture, so clothing should allow for ease of movement. For children who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids, clothing that is too tight, restrictive, or awkwardly designed can cause discomfort or hinder movement. However, clothes that are too loose may bunch up, cause irritation, or be difficult to manage in a wheelchair. Look for stretchable fabrics that can move with your child, as they should be more comfortable and flexible.
At SpecialKids.company our bodysuits are designed with a longer leg, reinforced crotch as well as flat-locked side seams to prevent digging into the skin prioritising your child's comfort.

Dress for the Weather and Sensory Sensitivity

Many children with CP also experience sensory processing difficulties, which means they may be extra sensitive to certain textures, temperatures, or fabrics. As such, it's important to consider the sensory preferences of your child when selecting clothing.

● Seasonal Comfort: Layering is key. For colder months, look for soft fleece-lined
jackets and pants. In warmer months, breathable fabrics like cotton can help keep
your child cool.
● Sensory-Friendly Materials: If your child has heightened sensitivity to certain
fabrics, consider sensory-friendly clothing options. These are designed with soft
seams, no tags, and smooth fabrics that reduce discomfort.

Adaptive Solutions for Special Needs

For children with CP who also rely on feeding tubes, there are adaptive clothes with discreet openings to accommodate medical equipment, making it easier for parents to access and care for their child.

There is also adaptive footwear. Shoes with wide openings and easy access, such as   Billy Footwear and Friendly Shoes, make it easier to accommodate foot braces and splints, providing the necessary support while being easy to put on and take off.

Involve Your Child in the Decision-Making Process

If your child is old enough to express preferences, involve them in the clothing selection process. Allow them to choose colours or styles they like and encourage them to have a say in their outfits. While comfort is the top priority, fostering independence and confidence is just as important.