Today, there are several interpretations by therapists about the concept, implementation, and training aspects of handling of children with cerebral palsy (CP). This has created conflicts and differences in teaching handling for parents and caregivers. Moreover, handling is not clearly defined in the theoretical frameworks underlying occupational therapy (OT). Therefore, the main aim of this study was to provide an overview on handling in the children with CP.

This study was a two- stage review of the national and international databases between 1990 and 2012. Out of the 2657 articles Obtained, we have studied 50 relevant full texts related to the topic. Based on the exploration articles and documents, There are several different definitions about handling. It seems that, handling is a special care of children with CP in the occupational performance area and in the domains of self-care, mobility, and social function. Doing proper handling activities, not only is essential to improve the child health but also for parents. All sections of handling are placed on the activity and participation domain of ICF-CY in the domestic life chapter. Although, handling is the main component in the OT, there is no precise and comprehensive definition of the concept yet, and activities related to the handling and its position in the OT has not been clarified.