According to the CDC (2026-a), “Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture.” These movement disorders include muscle stiffness, uncontrollable movements, poor balance and coordination, or a combination of these movement disorders (CDC, 2026-a). The CDC collects data on 8-year-old children in the U.S. According to the latest data, about 2 out of every 1,000 8-year-old children in the U.S. have CP (CDC, 2026-b).
A common misconception is that people with CP always struggle with learning and academics. It is important to presume competence! Presuming competence means believing that a person has the ability to understand and learn—regardless of whether they show it or not. Take a look at the video featuring the story of one man, Keith Jones, who asks "Can I get some math?" You’ll also read an article written by a different Keith that explains how CP affects his daily life.
Instructions:
First, read Cerebral Palsy: Keith’s Story.
Next, watch Keith Jones Featured in Film Including Samuel.
Optional - Watch My Disability Roadmap.
Optional - Complete the SAIL Community Accessibility Assessment.
Finally, complete the Week 8 Reflection.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2026-a, June 12). About cerebral palsy. https://www.cdc.gov/cerebral-palsy/about/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2026-b, June 8). Tracking methods for cerebral palsy. https://www.cdc.gov/cerebral-palsy/data-research/index.html
Disability Law Center. (2010, April 16). Keith jones featured in film including samuel [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/fwT0ikKekCc
Habib, D. (Director). (2022). My disability roadmap [Film]. LikeRightNow Films.
KidsHealth. (n.d.). Cerebral palsy: Keith’s story. https://kidshealth.org/
SAIL Disability Network of the Upper Peninsula. (n.d.). Accessibility four important priorities. https://www.upsail.org/