When a child struggles to speak clearly, it is easy to mistake their silence or garbled words as disinterest or delay. But for children with childhood apraxia of speech, it is not about knowing what to say. It is about struggling with how to say it.

Apraxia is a neurological speech disorder that affects a child’s ability to plan and coordinate the movements needed for speech. Children with apraxia know what they want to say, but their mouths cannot follow the instructions. This can be incredibly frustrating for them and heartbreaking for families.

The good news is that with the right support, children with apraxia can make remarkable progress. Here is how you can help.

🧠 Understand the Nature of Apraxia

Before anything else, it is important to remember:
• Apraxia is not a muscle problem. It is a motor planning issue.
• Children with apraxia often understand language well even if their speech is limited.
• It looks different for each child. There is no single pattern.

The key is consistent, multi modal support tailored to your child’s needs.

🗣️ Work with a Qualified Speech Pathologist

Speech therapy is the cornerstone of apraxia support.
• Frequent and intensive sessions, often three to five per week, are usually recommended.
• Approaches may include PROMPT, DTTC, or the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol.
• The focus is on sound sequencing, word shaping, and motor speech patterns rather than vocabulary alone.

Be an active partner by asking questions, attending sessions when you can, and practicing strategies at home.

💬 Use Alternative Communication Tools

If speaking is hard, children must still have a way to express themselves.

• AAC tools such as picture boards, tablets with speech generating apps, or sign language can be powerful.
• AAC does not replace speech. It supports language development and reduces frustration.

Give your child a voice, even if it is not a spoken one yet.

🧸 Make Communication Playful and Positive

Speaking with apraxia can be tiring. Turn it into something joyful.

• Use games, songs, and play.
• Celebrate every small win, even a single clear sound.
• Avoid constant corrections. Model clear speech instead.

Children thrive when learning feels safe and encouraging.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Support Emotional Wellbeing

Children with apraxia are often aware that they are different.

• Validate their feelings. “It is hard when people do not understand you, isn’t it”
• Teach siblings, friends, and family to be patient listeners.
• Advocate for inclusion in school and community activities.

Remind your child they are loved, valued, and celebrated exactly as they are.

📝 Advocate and Educate

Not everyone understands apraxia. You can help spread awareness.

• Share fact sheets, invite others to therapy, and suggest resources such as Apraxia Kids.
• Work with the school on an Individualised Education Plan.
• Join or create local support groups to connect with other families.

Knowledge creates empathy, and empathy creates connection.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Supporting a child with apraxia can be challenging, but it is also full of proud moments and milestones. Every word spoken is worth celebrating.

With time, patience, and love, your child will find their voice in whatever form it takes.

✨ Just because it is hard for them to say it does not mean they do not have something important to say.