Finally a walking device exists to help parents and caregivers to help walk children with cerebral palsy and other mobility impairments. Walking is such a powerful exercise for children with cerebral palsy because it teaches patterns of walking and numerous other reasons. Especially when you consider the physical action of walking is an excellent way of exercising. The walking device, Firefly Upsee, makes walking the child so much easier and relief on the back of the parent or caregiver.
Walking seemed common to me as a child and teenager. I didn’t always enjoy walking, but I knew that walking was good for me. As funny as that sounds being that I have severe cerebral palsy, my parents and family would walk me often in my house or at my grandparent’s house. The person would hold me under my arms and hold my arms together in the middle of my chest, and we would walk. My arms were held together so I could concentrate on walking instead of worrying about my arms flailing around and getting into trouble.
Looking back on it, I wish my family had the Firefly Upsee back when I was young. The Firefly UpSee is an awesome invention to help children with disabilities to walk! The device is used with a parent or caregiver to actually walk with their child. A mother invented this wonderful walking device based on her own experience of walking her child. She wanted to find an easier way to provide him exercise.
Debby Elnatan invented the UpSee device for her.son. He has cerebral palsy, and doctors told the mother don’t let him crawl or stand in fear of spasticity. She didn’t listen and created a device that allowed her son to walk with her. She also wanted his hands to be free for playing and exploring.
Elnatan used the device until her son was seven years old. She would adjust it as he grew for his comfort and support. Her invention took some time to become available to the public to purchase, but now it is readily available. A person can purchase it directly off the web site or even on Amazon. The price can be what one would expect from a mobility device with a price tag of ranging from $450 to $675. Different sizes are also available ranging from extra small to large. A large is for a child who is between 6 to 8 years old. Despite the amount of money, I can say that I have not read one negative review of this product. Parents rave about how good it is for their children.
Not only are there many physical benefits of walking such as weight bearing, but there are many emotional benefits. Siblings can stand with each other, hug and even play easily with others. Children can see the world from a different perspective and interact in ways that are not possible from sitting down. Families have been trying the UpSee and loving it! If interested in learning more or ordering one, please go to fireflyfriends.com
