Commonly Asked Questions about Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) By Jordan LeVan
Q1: What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)?
A1: Childhood Apraxia of Speech, often referred to as CAS, is a speech disorder that affects individuals’ ability to accurately and consistently produce sounds, syllables, and words when they speak. It is characterized by difficulties in motor planning and coordination of the speech muscles and has been present since birth.
Q2: What are the common signs of CAS?
A2: Signs of CAS may include inconsistent speech sound errors, difficulty with speech sound sequencing, frequent pauses or hesitations in speech, and a struggle to form words correctly. Individuals with CAS often have more difficulty with longer or more complex words.
Q3: How is CAS diagnosed?
A3: CAS is typically diagnosed by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) through a thorough assessment. This assessment may include evaluating the individual’s speech production, motor skills, and language abilities.
Q4: What is the recommended treatment for CAS?
A4: Treatment for CAS often involves speech therapy focusing on improving motor planning and coordination. Treatment plans are individualized based on the individual’s specific needs and may include various techniques and exercises to enhance speech clarity. However, for the purposes of CAS, we must utilize a motor planning approach for treatment in speech therapy, as other methods are not shown to be effective during this time.
Q5: Can individuals outgrow CAS?
A5: CAS is not outgrown; however, we can improve the research evidence-based treatment. While we may not require therapy at certain points in their life, with new life circumstances and events, new speech difficulties may represent themselves, which is why CAS is a lifelong neurological speech condition. Early intervention and consistent speech therapy are essential for improving speech skills. My personal journey with CAS highlights the importance of ongoing treatment, even into adulthood, as you can make gains with your speech as an adult.
Q6: How can parents and individuals support someone with CAS?
A6: Parents, family members, and individuals can provide emotional support, attend therapy sessions, and practice speech exercises at home. It’s crucial to create a supportive and understanding environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Q7: Is CAS related to other disorders?
A7: CAS can co-occur with other communication or developmental disorders. It’s important to have a thorough evaluation to address individuals’ additional needs.
Q8: Do adults have CAS?
A8: Yes, adults can have CAS. CAS is a lifelong neurological speech disorder, and its effects can continue into adulthood. Many adults with CAS have developed strategies to mask their speech difficulties, which require a tremendous amount of brain energy and concentration. This can lead to fatigue, tiredness, and difficulties expanding on words. It’s a lifelong journey, and support is invaluable.
Q9: Where can I find resources and support for CAS?
A9: You can find valuable resources and support on Jordan’s online social media platforms at Fighting For My Voice. Jordan is also the founder and president of The Apraxia Foundation: Hearing All Voices, a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to families in need of research evidence-based services and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices. Jordan believes that access to services is a fundamental human right, and one of his core values is equality. He knows from previous life experiences that without access to treatment, he wouldn’t be speaking today. He wants each person to have an equal opportunity at communication.
Additional Questions about CAS Answered by Jordan:
Q10: Can childhood apraxia of speech affect reading and spelling?
A10: Absolutely, it can. However, it’s essential to remember that co-occurring conditions are pretty standard. To fully understand the impact on reading and spelling, it’s vital to rule out other conditions. Research shows that a multi-sensory approach, such as the Orton-Gillingham method, must be utilized to address these challenges and better meet the unique needs of individuals dealing with CAS.
Q11: Why do some people with childhood apraxia of speech experience migraines?
A11: CAS can be mentally taxing, and the effort put into communication may contribute to migraine-like symptoms. It’s crucial to be mindful of this and care for ourselves when necessary.
Q12: Do individuals with CAS know what they want to say?
A12: Yes, they do! One of the unique things about CAS is that individuals typically know exactly what they want to say. The challenge lies in getting their words to come out the way they intend.
Q13: Why do individuals with childhood apraxia of speech sometimes have trouble with eye contact?
A13: It’s a natural result of CAS. The anxiety that often accompanies communication difficulties can lead to challenges with eye contact. Sometimes, we may look up into our heads because we know what we want to say but need a moment to get the words out. It’s all part of the journey.
Warmly,
Jordan LeVan