What Educators Should Know

Kids with apraxia of speech have trouble getting their tongue, lips, and jaw to move correctly for talking. They know what they want to say but can't say the sounds, syllables, and words.

By understanding their challenges and supporting their needs, educators can help students with apraxia of speech do their best in school.

Challenges for Students With Apraxia of Speech

Students with apraxia of speech may have trouble with:

• forming the words they want to say
• using the right tone and rhythm when talking
• spelling, reading, and writing
• certain mouth sensitivities, such as not liking to brush their teeth or eat crunchy foods
• motor skills and coordination

Most don’t have problems understanding what someone says to them.

What Educators Can Do

Work with your student’s family to understand their needs and what will help them most:

• If your student has an IEP (individualized education plan) or 504 plan, use all modifications and accommodations.
• If available, have your student work with a speech and language therapist at school and a tutor familiar with apraxia of speech.
  
• If available at school and needed by your student, help them work with a physical therapist and/or an occupational therapist.
• Let your student work in small groups for assignments that require speaking.
• Don’t ask your student to speak aloud in class if they are uncomfortable doing so.
• Allow extra time for assignments and tests. Avoid oral tests (where students speak their answers) or let them take oral tests in a separate room with just a teacher.
• Let your student communicate in ways they feel most comfortable. For example, they might:
  • Use gestures, drawings, or photographs.
  • Write or type what they want to say.
  • Use assistive devices, such as a text-to-speech device or a computer tablet with a speech app.
• Help build your student’s confidence by recognizing and appreciating their strengths — in math, sports, drama, art, or whatever else they enjoy.
• Provide support. If you think your student is feeling very anxious or down, talk to them and their family about counseling options in school or in the community. Some school districts don’t require parents’ permission for a student to see a counselor at school while others do. Check your local school district’s policies.