At Apraxia Kids, we often get asked how to explain apraxia to siblings and how to navigate their feelings surrounding their sibling’s diagnosis. Chelsea Boytim has three children, one being an Apraxia Star. In this blog, Chelsea shares how she has taught her children about apraxia and how they have since begun to advocate for their sister in their own special ways.

When/do your other children know Delaney has apraxia? How do you explain that to them?

Both Norah and Wesley have always known that Delaney has Childhood Apraxia of Speech. We’ve explained it in a way that feels natural and loving—that her speech may sound different because her brain and mouth don’t always communicate easily, certain things are harder for her. When Wesley was little and wondered if he had apraxia too, it opened the door for gentle conversations about how every child is wonderfully different. We shared that with lots of speech therapy, patience, and encouragement, Delaney’s words would become clearer over time. Most importantly, we emphasize that we are always there to support her, just as we support each of them in their own ways. They travel to all of her therapies, cheer her on, and genuinely care about how she’s doing.

Do your other kids get jealous that Delaney might get more “attention”/have more needs than they do?

We’ve definitely seen many moments of jealousy, and we try to meet those feelings with understanding rather than correction. We talk openly about how therapy isn’t a reward, but something Delaney needs—just like others might need extra help with homework or practice for a sport. All three kids need support in their own unique way, even if that support looks different.

How do you ensure all three of your kids feel special?

We’re very intentional about carving out one-on-one time with each child, especially when we sense someone might be feeling a little overlooked. Sometimes it’s as simple as a quick errand together that turns into a meaningful conversation over a cake pop, playing a game one on one or a lunch date where they get our full attention. Those small moments go a long way. Balancing it all can absolutely be hard at times, but we’re constantly reminding ourselves that presence matters and this is important for each of them.

What do each of your children think about apraxia?

They truly don’t think twice about it anymore—it’s just part of our everyday life. Norah has such a big heart for awareness – she even entered into the drawing for the Walk for Apraxia t-shirt design last year and won. Her main goal was to share how we are all in this together. She loves sharing about apraxia with her friends, bringing things into her classroom, and helping others understand on Apraxia Awareness Day. Wesley is still young, but he lights up when we talk about the Walk for Apraxia and the apraxia summer camp we attend as a family. Both kids are patient, compassionate, and accepting—not just with Delaney, but with other children with apraxia as well. Some of the most meaningful moments are when Norah instinctively understands what Delaney or another friend is trying to say and helps bridge that gap.