What Is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?

Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that affects how the brain plans and coordinates the movements needed for speech.

Children with CAS know what they want to say, but their brain has difficulty consistently sending the correct movement messages to the mouth.

CAS is not caused by low intelligence, lack of effort, or parenting style.

Signs of Childhood Apraxia of Speech

Children with CAS may:

• Be difficult to understand

• Produce speech inconsistently

• Have clearer speech one day and more difficulty another day

• Struggle sequencing sounds together

• Use limited consonants and vowels

• Have unusual stress patterns in words

• Appear to “grop” or search for mouth movements

• Become frustrated communicating

Some children are late talkers, while others may speak a lot but still be difficult to understand.

How Is CAS Different From Other Speech Delays?

CAS is a motor planning difficulty.

This means therapy usually requires:

• Frequent practice

• Repetition with support

• Multi-sensory cueing

• Motor learning approaches

• Careful goal sequencing

Children with CAS often benefit from therapy approaches that focus on movement patterns rather than isolated sounds alone.

Can AAC Be Helpful?

Yes.

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) can support communication while speech skills develop.

Using AAC does not stop children from talking. Research shows AAC can support language development, reduce frustration, and increase communication opportunities.

Why Early Support Matters

Early intervention can support:

• Communication confidence

• Emotional wellbeing

• Participation at preschool and school

• Literacy foundations

• Reduced communication frustration

A speech pathology assessment can help determine whether CAS characteristics are present and what supports may help your child best.