For people living with cerebral palsy, inclusive recreational activities not only add fun and joy to the day, but may also provide valuable social connections, increased self-confidence and improved health outcomes.
Leisure activities like swimming, storytelling, getting outdoors, games and hobbies can support physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing for people of any age.
A care team can use tailored support and creative thinking to redesign activities to suit a person’s needs, so that the fun of games and leisure activities become more accessible.
Key insights on recreational activities and games for cerebral palsy
- Leisure activities can help build confidence and connection by going beyond daily routines to support emotional wellbeing and quality of life.
- Physical activities like adaptive sports, swimming and dance may improve strength, flexibility and motor skills while reducing muscle stiffness.
- Creative hobbies such as art, music or photography can help to express emotion and develop fine motor skills.
- Cognitive and sensory activities support focus, problem-solving and mental engagement.
- Barriers like fatigue or mobility can be managed with the right supports, tools and modifications.
- Disability support workers provide encouragement by providing tailored support services helping to adapt activities and ensure safe participation.
- NDIS funding may cover inclusive activities such as sports, group outings and creative classes.
What are the leisure activities for cerebral palsy?
Leisure activities for cerebral palsy are an essential way to support health, by focusing on the importance of mental wellbeing, identity, freedom, creativity and connection.
Activities for people with cerebral palsy can include anything that brings enjoyment, relaxation or creative expression, such as:
- Sports and movement-based games
- Creative hobbies like art or music
- Sensory play and cognitive challenges
- Group activities that foster inclusion and friendship.
How does cerebral palsy affect participation in recreational activities?
Cerebral palsy affects muscle tone, coordination and movement. This can make it harder to run, climb, reach or participate in fast-paced games.
This doesn’t mean activities are off-limits, however thoughtful support and planning is needed.
How do leisure activities improve wellbeing for people with cerebral palsy?
There are many benefits of leisure activities for people with cerebral palsy.
Physically
- Improve strength, posture and flexibility
- Boost cardiovascular health
- Support better motor control and coordination.
Mentally and emotionally
- Reduce stress, anxiety and fatigue
- Build confidence and independence
- Foster creativity and purpose.
Socially
- Promote community inclusion
- Create space for friendships
- Build teamwork and cooperation skills.
Examples of cerebral palsy friendly games and recreational activities
Whether you’re a support worker, family member or friend, knowing how to approach and adapt games or recreational activities is a helpful skill for supporting someone with cerebral palsy.
Physical activities and sports
Physical recreation promotes strength, coordination and movement confidence.
Adaptive activities for cerebral palsy focus on gross motor skills and can be tailored to individual needs.
Remember to seek medical advice before engaging in physical activity and sport.
- Wheelchair, tennis or rugby – These structured cerebral palsy group activities can build upper body strength, stamina, coordination and confidence. They’re also great team sports.
- Adaptive cycling (e.g. tricycles, recumbent bikes) – A great outdoor option for building endurance and improving balance. You can tailor trikes or hand cycles to suit diverse levels of mobility.
- Swimming and aquatic therapy – Being in the water reduces joint pressure and supports muscle tone, making swimming a great option for developing strength, flexibility and confidence.
- Adaptive dance or movement therapy – Dancing can help develop rhythm, motor planning and self-expression.
- Outdoor activities like bushwalks or kayaking with assistance – Nature-based activities offer both sensory stimulation and opportunities to build gross motor skills in new environments.
Creative activities and hobbies
Creative expression can help with physical and mental health. Here’s a list of fun activities that may suit people with cerebral palsy:
- Arts and crafts (painting, clay, collage) – These activities can support fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and sensory exploration. Large-handled tools or adapted grips can help.
- Playing musical instruments (e.g. drumming or adapted keyboards) – Music encourages timing, listening and self-expression. Drumming can be particularly accessible for people with limited fine motor control.
- Photography with adaptive equipment – Using lightweight cameras or switch-adapted devices allows people with cerebral palsy to get creative and use cameras.
- Journaling – Writing-based hobbies foster self-reflection and communication, whether through typing, dictation or handwriting with support.
Cognitive and sensory activities
These games and activities can help people with cerebral palsy to support focus, memory and exploration, using multisensory input:
- Board games and puzzles – The classic board game or puzzle is a good option to support memory, planning and turn-taking. Choose games with large pieces, simple rules or tactile elements.
- Storytelling or listening to audiobooks – Listening to stories or recording your own audiobook can build language skills and imagination.
- Sensory bins with sand, water or textures – These hands-on activities can provide calming stimulation, especially for people with sensory processing needs.
- Digital games or virtual reality tailored to motor ability – Many apps and devices now offer eye-tracking or switch-access controls for inclusive digital play.
- Sensory walks through nature or designed sensory paths – Outdoor walks provide different ground textures, sounds, smells and visuals to engage the senses while supporting gentle movement.
Social games and community-based activities
These group activities can help to promote connection and belonging in inclusive settings for people with cerebral palsy.
- Drama groups or theatre games – Acting builds communication skills, confidence and collaboration. Many inclusive drama programs have been adapted for all abilities.
- Community gardening – A great way to enjoy fresh air, learn new skills and feel a sense of achievement. Raised beds and adapted tools can make gardening accessible.
- Cooking or baking sessions in small groups – Cooking classes teach life skills, encourage independence and offer opportunities to bond over shared meals.
- Attending music or food festivals – These events can provide lively, sensory-rich experiences. Plan ahead to find accessible venues and facilities.
- Inclusive camps and school holiday programs – Camps offer structured activities, peer connection and exploration in a supportive and supervised setting.
How disability support workers facilitate recreational participation
Independent support workers on Mable can play a vital role in enabling inclusive, enjoyable and consistent participation in recreational activities. Through tailored disability support and services, a support worker can assist with planning, adapting and facilitating activities that align with individual goals, preferences and abilities.
Support workers also provide reassurance, motivation and assistance offering the encouragement needed to help people with cerebral palsy confidently engage in their communities.
Learn more about the services you can find on Mable.
Assisting with physical and recreational activities
Support workers help individuals participate in physical activity safely and comfortably, including as follows.
- Helping with set-up and participation in modified sports, swimming or outings.
- Supporting access to adaptive sports, dance or outdoor leisure.
- Encouraging motivation and building routines around favourite activities.
- Providing referrals to or working alongside professionals offering allied health assistance for therapeutic recreation support.
Encouraging creative and cognitive engagement
Recreational support isn’t limited to movement – it also includes creative expression and cognitive stimulation. Support workers assist in a multitude of ways.
- Facilitating arts, crafts or music sessions that support hand-eye coordination and self-expression.
- Helping with storytelling, board games or puzzles to encourage engagement and focus.
- Assisting individuals in exploring new hobbies with adaptive tools or strategies.
Supporting social and community participation
Connecting with others is a powerful way to build confidence. Support workers help foster inclusion too.
- Accompanying to group events or structured programs.
- Assisting to meet new people and build social skills.
- Supporting participation in school holiday programs or inclusive camps funded through NDIS approved therapeutic supports.
Ensuring a safe and inclusive environment
Some support workers are skilled at creating safe, welcoming spaces for participation.
- Adapting activities to meet individual mobility or sensory needs.
- Ensuring equipment, environments and transitions are physically and emotionally safe.
- Providing one-on-one supervision or adjustments as needed.
- Arranging transport services for people with disabilities to and from recreational venues or activities.
With the right support in place, people with cerebral palsy can confidently explore, enjoy and benefit from meaningful leisure opportunities.
Additional resources on cerebral palsy friendly activities and community programs
- Disability Sports Australia
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance – Lifestyle programs
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance – Sports programs
- aaPlay – Accessible Activities
- My CP guide
Looking for support to access inclusive games and activities? Connect with an independent support worker on Mable to explore what’s possible.
FAQs
How does cerebral palsy affect play in children?
Children with cerebral palsy may need modified play environments or adaptive equipment. Support workers and therapists can help find inclusive options and physical therapy for cerebral palsy can help increase confidence and independence.
How to choose the right leisure activities for someone with cerebral palsy?
Consider the individual's interests, strengths, energy levels and support needs. Involve them in decision-making and trial new things gradually.
What are simple recreational activities for adults with cerebral palsy?
Listening to music, gardening, drawing, cooking, card games and walking with assistance can all be enjoyable and supportive.
How can I find an inclusive sport for someone with cerebral palsy?
Search for adaptive sports programs in your area or ask your support worker or physiotherapist. Look for programs with trained staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Does NDIS fund recreational activities for cerebral palsy?
Yes. The NDIS can fund supports that help people with cerebral palsy to participate in community, social or recreational activities. This might include support workers, programs, transport or adaptive equipment. Read more on how your NDIS funding can support increased social and community participation.
The information provided in this article is general information only and based on current information at the date of publication. In addition to considering the information shared in this article, Mable encourages you to conduct your own research and seek independent medical advice relative to your circumstances. If you wish to use your NDIS funding on any of the services outlined above, Mable recommends that you check your NDIS Support Plan or speak with your Plan Manager to ensure that the appropriate services are coverable.
If you are a support worker and wish to rely on insurance available via Mable while supporting a person with disability during a recreational activity, refer to the Mable Insurance Page to confirm coverage of your support during that recreational activity.