Communication

Many children with cerebral palsy whose oral motor function is compromised, have difficulty controlling the muscles of the mouth, resulting in speech difficulty. The quality and volume of speech can also be affected when the muscles of the trunk are weak or spastic. This prevents proper positioning and complete expansion of the lungs for vocalization. Thus children with CP may have more difficulty acquiring language skills. It is important to include speech/language evaluation as part of the team assessment so that children are properly diagnosed in terms of expressive and receptive language difficulties. When the underlying cause for delayed speech/language skills is determined, interventions can begin early and will be more effective.

What to do

Work with the family, communication specialist or EI provider to find ways of addressing oral-motor skills, language, and communication in the child care setting. The intervention may include the use of augmentative communication devices to help the child communicate with his peers. The right communication device can be a great equalizer for a child with CP.

Joey is a 3-year-old in Sarah's preschool classroom. During circle time, Joey uses a jellybean switch with voice activation that has pre-recorded phrases that typically come up during the day. Sarah asks the children whether it is sunny or cloudy that day. Joey hits the switch and the children hear his response "cloudy". Then she asks if the children would like to make cupcakes today. All the children cheer and say "yes". Joey joins in by hitting the switch to say "yes"!