Apraxia is a very under-diagnosed disorder in schools today. This may be due to the lack of understanding on the behalf of teachers, parents, and therapists. Apraxia in children can occur in many different ways, and should be treated in different ways depending on what type it is.
The Different Types of Apraxia
There are three different types of Apraxia. These include: limb, oral, and verbal apraxia. These three can occur together or on their own. Each one is characterized by an individual trying to perform a task or make a word on command and struggling to, although if not asked to would be perfectly able. For example if a child was licking a popsicle and you stopped and asked her to lick the popsicle, she would experience difficulty.
Oral Apraxia
Apraxia in children can occur in the form of oral movement difficulties. Here, the brain is unable to allow the body to make oral movements upon command. For example if a person was to be told to smile, open this mouth, or blow a whistle, he would experience difficulties. Sometimes this is in conjunction with delays, groping, or facial grimacing. The movement of this area is difficult and can make other things in life difficult too. This is especially difficult for children who display oral apraxia in the classroom. It is important for teachers to understand this disorder, because it can easily be something that seems like defiance rather than difficulty.
Limb Apraxia
Limb apraxia in children is involving many more gross motor skills. Again the brain is unable to follow the directions on cue, and activities such as waving, zipping a coat, or opening a door on command can be struggles. This type of apraxia can be much more noticeable. This can be hard because it is easier for other kids to spot and make fun of, but it can also be good because adults may become more aware of this large motor movement difficulty.
Verbal Apraxia
Verbal apraxia is a very, very difficulty disorder to diagnose. Just like the other apraxia's, it can be seen as a defiant behavior rather than a struggle.This can also be called apraxia of speech. Apraxia of speech can easily be confused for an articulation disorder or fluency (stuttering) disorder.
How Can You Tell if a Child is Displaying Apraxia of Speech?
One way that seems to be the easiest, is the begin with words that are simple and keep increasing the difficulty. As the complexity increases, then the number of misarticulations will increase also. Many times students show struggling such as groping movements to move their mouth and tongue to the correct positions. It is also very common for them to correctly say a word one time, and then have difficulty with it later on.
What To Do If You Think Your Child Has Apraxia
If you believe that a child has apraxia, then it is always a good idea to start with the doctor. Make sure that this is not some other type of condition or problem first. If the doctor believes that this could be the problem, then he/she will probably recommend that you get further testing with some kind of therapist. If it is oral/verbal apraxia, you may be referred to a speech pathologist, and if it is limb apraxia, it may be a physical or occupational therapist.
Being aware of the condition is the first step, and a great way to work on making a change.
Autumn Heseman - Autumn Heseman has a variety of experiences which contribute to her diverse writing specialties. She is currently a full time speech ...
