Speaking may seem like a simple activity, but it is actually quite complex. Not only does it involve knowing words and sounds, but there is also a whole system of muscles and nerves involved in speaking clearly. In some cases, a child can know the words they want to say but struggle with speech due to their nervous system. This is called childhood apraxia of speech, and it can affect a child’s development, academic success, and overall well being. Keep reading to learn more about this condition and how pediatric speech-language pathologists help children master their speech skills for effective communication.
What Is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
Childhood apraxia of speech is a disorder that affects a child’s ability to use their oral muscles for speech. It is caused by miscommunication between the brain and the muscles. The child’s muscles are strong enough for speech, but the signals from their brain get confused and make it difficult for them to use those muscles to form clear words.
It’s important to note that childhood apraxia of speech has nothing to do with intelligence—a child with this condition can be very smart and know the words they want to say, they just struggle to say them properly.
What Causes Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
We don’t know the exact cause of childhood apraxia of speech, but we do know that some common risk factors include traumatic brain injury and a family history of speech disorders.
Symptoms of Childhood Apraxia of Speech
The most common symptoms of childhood apraxia of speech include:
- Making speech sounds inconsistently (they say the same word differently each time)
- Emphasizing the wrong syllables in words, or the wrong words in sentences
- Finding it easier to say short words than longer words
- Changing or distorting the sounds of words
- Missing speech and language milestones
- Having to repeat a word multiple times to say it correctly
How Pediatric Speech Therapy Can Treat Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Pediatric speech-language pathologists can treat childhood apraxia of speech with personalized speech therapy programs. Our therapists use proven, play-based treatments to help children build the vital oral motor skills they need for effective speech. We also work with children who have apraxia of speech on strategies they can use to overcome the challenges of this condition. Treatment may include specialized exercises, practice, and activities designed to improve your child’s ability to speak clearly.
In some cases, we may recommend your child use augmentative and alternative communication methods like sign language or picture boards so they can more easily share their ideas while they are working on their therapy program. We can help them learn to use these methods and give you tips on how best to support your child’s therapy progress at home.
Schedule an Evaluation
If your child has apraxia of speech, Little Hands at Play is here to help. Call us at (479) 226-3409 to schedule an evaluation with our experienced speech-language pathologists today.
