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- Adrienne
- Krouskop
- 181 S. Liberty Street
Harrisonburg
Virginia
22801
United States - The Speech and Language Center
Harrisonburg
Virginia
22801
United States
Children with diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) are typically seen 2 to 3 times per week for 30-minute sessions to allow for the frequent practice needed to build accurate speech movements. Therapy focuses on a small number of carefully selected sounds and/or functional words/phrases that are chosen together with the child and family. I primarily use a treatment approach called Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC), which involves practicing target words many times while I provide the level of support the child needs to be successful. As the child's accuracy improves, my cues are gradually reduced until they are able to produce the words independently. Because children with CAS benefit from many repetitions, sessions are fast-paced and highly interactive, with brief breaks for games, movement, or other motivating activities to keep practice fun and engaging. Home practice is also an important part of therapy so new skills can continue to grow between sessions.
Parents are involved in multiple aspects of the therapy process. This includes contributing to goal development by helping identify functional words and priorities that are meaningful to their child and family. Parents are always welcome to observe therapy sessions if they choose. Parent education is provided verbally and/or in writing and may include information about the diagnosis, treatment approach, target words, progress, recommended resources, and home practice activities. Because consistent practice outside of therapy is an important part of treatment for childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), I work closely with families to ensure they feel comfortable carrying over skills at home and have opportunities to ask questions throughout the therapy process.
I am a strong supporter of a total communication approach, which may include your child's voice, gestures, signs, and, when appropriate, a speech-generating device (SGD). My goal is for every child to have a reliable way to communicate while we continue working on speech. Introducing AAC early can reduce frustration, increase successful communication, and support participation at home, school, and in the community. An SGD is a tablet with specialized software that speaks when buttons are selected. These devices are often funded through insurance and are designed specifically for communication rather than entertainment. For many children with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), AAC not only supports communication but can also promote language development while speech skills continue to improve. I view AAC as a support for speech, not a replacement for it.