Childhood Apraxia of Speech Treatment in Monroe, West Monroe, & Ruston, LA
Childhood apraxia of speech happens when a child’s brain has trouble sending clear signals to the muscles used for speaking, even though they know exactly what they want to say. Building Futures Pediatric Therapy offers speech therapy at clinics in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston, LA, using a step-by-step, play-based approach to help children build the confidence and skills to communicate freely.
Imagine that you woke up one day and suddenly couldn’t speak. You could think of the ideas you wanted to share, you knew the words to use, but you just couldn’t get your mouth to say them. This is what daily life is like for children with childhood apraxia of speech. They know what they want to say, but they simply can’t say it. This can make it difficult for them to do well in school or make friends, and it can negatively impact their self-esteem over time. Keep reading to learn what childhood apraxia of speech is and how speech therapy can help your child overcome this condition.
What Is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
Childhood apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder that impairs a child’s ability to plan and coordinate the movements needed for speech. Think of it as a communication error between the brain’s intentions and the muscles of the lips, tongue, and jaws. When these two parts communicate well, speech comes easily; but when the signals can’t get through or are misunderstood, speech becomes much more difficult.
Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Apraxia of Speech
The most common signs of this condition include:
- Makes inconsistent speech sound errors
- Has a limited ability to create speech sounds
- Gets frustrated when attempting to communicate verbally
- Learns new words but forgets them quickly
- Has to repeat a word several times to say it correctly
- Struggles with speech quality (tone, emphasis, rhythm, etc.)
- Pauses between words or syllables in words
- Avoids situations where they have to speak.
How Speech Therapy Treats Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Our pediatric speech-language pathologists at Building Futures employ the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP). This comprehensive approach combines visual, kinesthetic, and tactile cues with play-based therapy techniques to break down speech and language skills into manageable steps. By practicing individual sounds and showing your child how to create those sounds using the different cues, we help them learn to speak with confidence. As your child progresses through this protocol, they will gain the ability to communicate freely with others.
Why Early Intervention Is Crucial for Speech and Language Struggles
Speech and language are complex skills that take time to master. Early intervention is vital because the longer a child struggles with these skills, the harder it will be for them later in life. If a child falls behind on early milestones, it becomes much more challenging to catch up, especially as they enter school. Early intervention ensures that your child is prepared for their education and lays a foundation for their future success.
Free Developmental Screening
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, you can take advantage of our free online developmental screening. This tool is a convenient way for parents to know with certainty if your child is achieving their developmental milestones or if they need extra support to achieve their brightest future.
FreQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes childhood apraxia of speech different from a speech delay?
With childhood apraxia of speech, the brain has difficulty planning and coordinating the movements needed for speech. A child may know exactly what they want to say but have trouble getting the mouth movements to happen clearly and consistently.
What are common signs of childhood apraxia of speech?
Parents may notice that a child says the same word differently at different times, has trouble copying sounds or words, says fewer sounds than expected for their age, or becomes frustrated because speech takes so much effort.
Can speech therapy help with childhood apraxia of speech?
Yes, speech therapy can help children practice speech movements in a structured, supportive way. Children with apraxia often need frequent, consistent practice so they can learn the movement patterns needed for clearer speech.
Will my child need to repeat sounds over and over?
There is usually repetition, but it should not feel like constant drilling the whole time. A good therapy session blends focused practice with play, encouragement and meaningful words your child can use in daily life.
How can I help at home without overwhelming my child?
Home practice should be short and manageable. Your therapist may give you a few sounds, words or phrases to practice each day. It helps to celebrate effort and keep practice positive so your child stays willing to communicate.