The E-words for promoting development and neuroplasticity for infants with or at high risk for cerebral palsy.

Abstract

For children with cerebral palsy (CP) who sustain brain insults during early development, animal research on earlier intervention offers the possibility of recovery not yet realized in humans. Inspired by and similar to the F-words in childhood disability, this narrative review aims to highlight essential components for promoting motor and overall development that may be used with or modified for infants with CP to enhance behavioral and neural outcomes, summarized here by seven E-words: earlier, engagement, exploration, enriched environments, experiences, everyday, and exercise. A preliminary list of E-words was used as search terms in combination with 'infant', 'cerebral palsy', or 'development'. Two more E-words emerged during the literature search. Key messages are (1) the developing brain is highly responsive to the quality, quantity, and timing of early sensorimotor experiences, and (2) the infant's active participation is essential to drive this process which is experienced uniquely by each infant and family. The concepts presented through these E-words may stimulate the design of novel intervention strategies or provide new insights for clinical practice. These also have important implications for learning, health, and well-being across the lifespan for those with or without cerebral palsy, as well as setting the stage for the F-words.