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• Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS)

  A classification system for mobility

  • Bilateral, leg-predominantBoth legs affected
  • HemiparesisOne side of the body affected
  • Unilateral, leg-predominantOne leg affected
  • Whole body affectedWhole body affected
  • People with CPPeople with CP

  Choose how you want to learn

  Start Power-up(external link, opens in a new tab)

  The Power-up to click through yourself

  Easy-to-read summary

  This Power-up explains the GMFCS (Gross Motor Function Classification System) in a child-friendly way – a 5-level model showing how much support a child needs to get around. From level 1 (walks independently) to level 5 (full support for every movement), you learn what the levels mean, why the classification barely changes from around age 4 onwards, and how practice still helps you stay strong and mobile. At the end, you can classify yourself. You can watch the Power-up as a short video or click through it yourself – choose what works for you.

  This Power-up explains GMFCS to you. GMFCS shows how well you can move. There are 5 levels.

  This video is for you.

  What is the GMFCS?

  GMFCS is an abbreviation.
  The GMFCS is a system.
  The system describes movement.
  It shows how well you can move.

  There are 5 levels

  The GMFCS has 5 levels.
  Like a staircase.
  Level 1 means: You need little help.
  Level 5 means: You need a lot of help.

  Level 1

  You walk on your own.
  Indoors and outdoors.
  You also climb stairs on your own.

  Level 2

  You also walk on your own.
  But uneven ground is harder.
  Long distances are also harder.

  Level 3

  You need a walking aid.
  For example a walker.
  For long distances you use a wheelchair.

  Level 4

  You do not walk on your own.
  You mostly use a power wheelchair.

  Level 5

  You need a lot of help with every movement.
  Other people help you.

  The level only shows movement

  The level only shows how you move.
  It says nothing about how clever you are.
  It also says nothing about your feelings.
  Every level is okay.
  No level is better or worse.

  The level usually stays the same

  From about age 4, the level usually stays the same.
  That is not bad.
  You can still learn a lot.
  Practice helps you.
  In sport. When playing. In therapy.
  This keeps you strong and flexible.

  The level helps with planning

  With the level, you find goals that suit you.
  And you find the right assistive device.
  Your therapy team helps you with this.

  And you?

  What level are you?