Understanding Apraxia in children

Published: 09 Jun 2023 Tagged: apraxiaApraxiaAwarenessChildhoodApraxiaOfSpeechCommunicationSkillsEarlyInterventionIndividualizedTreatmentLanguageDevelopmentSpeakableSpeakClearlySpeechDisordersSpeechPathologySpeechTherapy

Apraxia, also known as childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), is a motor speech disorder that affects a child's ability to coordinate and plan movements of the tongue, lips, and jaw necessary for clear speech. It is estimated that approximately 1-2 children per 1,000 in Australia are affected by Apraxia. Here are some key characteristics of children with Apraxia:

• Difficulty with articulation: Children with Apraxia have trouble producing clear and accurate speech sounds, particularly consonants, vowels, and combinations of sounds. They may make inconsistent errors and have difficulty imitating sounds or words.
• Slow, effortful speech: Children with Apraxia may struggle to coordinate the movements required for speech, resulting in slow, laboured speech that may be choppy or halting.
• Difficulty with prosody: Children with Apraxia may struggle with the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech, leading to a monotonous or robotic-sounding voice.
• Language delays: While Apraxia primarily affects the motor aspects of speech production, children with Apraxia may also have language delays or difficulties with other aspects of communication, such as vocabulary or grammar.
• Frustration and social isolation: Children with Apraxia may become frustrated or embarrassed by their difficulty communicating, leading to social isolation and low self-esteem.

At Speakable, we use evidence-based techniques and strategies to help children with Apraxia improve their speech and communication skills. Our speech-language pathologists work closely with families to develop individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each child. Our goal is to help children with Apraxia develop clear, confident speech that allows them to communicate effectively with others.