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Poor nutritional status, which is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP), has generated considerable interest because of its wide-ranging impact on the children's health and well-being. Understanding the causes of poor nutrition, and the appropriate measurements required to interpret the nutritional status in children with CP, are integral to developing appropriate nutritional intervention strategies. Focusing attention on improving nutrition early in the lives of children with CP affords families and care providers with a unique opportunity for intervention, which may result in better outcomes for the children.

Regardless of the underlying cause of a child's developmental disability, a similar constellation of associated medical conditions may occur. Successful management approaches in children with developmental disabilities are generally interdisciplinary, frequently involving a variety of medical and surgical disciplines, allied health professionals, and the child's family. Pharmacologic intervention is an integral aspect of the management plan, but consideration must be given both to the possible effects of the medications on a child's growth and development, and to the avoidance of adverse drug interactions and reactions.