In most cases there are no signs of Cerebral palsy at birth and as the child develops and progresses through the predictable developmental milestones the first symptoms may be noticed. As children suffering from Cerebral palsy pass through those milestones later due to their motor impairment it should be the first sign of possible Cerebral palsy. For instance if the child does not sit unsupported too well at six months of age, but at eight or ten - this might be the first sign. Then if the child crawls not at nine months (as is the usual case), but at twelve or fourteen months. Also if the child walks alone later than at the usual 12 months parents should be concerned. As children progress at slightly different rates the first delay should not be treated a conclusive and only if the child continues to develop slower than its peers parents should consult a physician.

Certain tests are also made to ascertain if the baby suffers from Cerebral palsy. For instance, the Apgar score measures babies’ condition right after the birth. If babies have low Apgar scores they are at increased risk for Cerebral palsy. Moreover, abnormal muscle tones and movements might indicate Cerebral palsy. Sometimes the patient’s brain is scanned in order to check for structural anomalies.