What Is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a rare motor speech disorder where children know what they want to say but have difficulty planning and coordinating the precise mouth movements needed for speech. The brain struggles to send accurate signals to the lips, tongue, jaw, and palate — making speech sound inconsistent, effortful, or hard to understand.
Common Signs Parents May Notice
CAS can look different depending on age and severity, but common features include:
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Inconsistent errors (the same word may sound different each time).
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Difficulty with longer words or phrases; short sounds may be easier.
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Irregular speech rhythm or melody (sometimes “choppy” speech).
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More difficulty when asked to say words on demand.
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Late talking or a limited vocabulary in early years.
👉 If close family members struggle to understand your child, a specialist speech pathology assessment is recommended.
What Causes CAS?
Most cases of CAS do not have a single cause. It can occur in isolation or alongside other developmental conditions (e.g., genetic differences or broader neurodevelopmental disorders).
How Is CAS Diagnosed?
A diagnosis is made by an experienced speech pathologist using:
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A detailed developmental and medical history.
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Standardised and criterion-referenced assessments.
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Observations of speech accuracy, consistency, rhythm, and sequencing.
Because CAS is rare and overlaps with other speech disorders, accurate diagnosis by a clinician with motor speech expertise is essential.
What Does Effective Therapy Look Like?
Evidence-based therapy for CAS is:
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Motor-based and movement-focused (not just sounds in isolation).
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Frequent and intensive (many structured practice trials per session).
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Multi-sensory (visual, tactile, and auditory cues).
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Meaningful (focusing on functional words and phrases relevant to the child).
At Perth Speech Therapy, our clinicians are trained in PROMPT Therapy — a specialised approach designed for children with apraxia of speech.
Outcomes and Prognosis
Progress depends on severity, co-occurring conditions, age at diagnosis, and therapy intensity. With early, targeted therapy, many children improve speech clarity and confidence. Some may require ongoing support as they grow. Early intervention provides the best outcomes.
Strategies Families Can Use at Home
Parents play a vital role in therapy. Helpful strategies include:
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Keeping communication natural — expand on your child’s attempts without pressure.
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Choosing meaningful daily words (names, food, play words).
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Practising short, fun, and frequent bursts (games, songs, routines).
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Considering AAC tools (gestures, picture boards, devices) to reduce frustration and support participation.
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Working closely with your speech pathologist on tailored home practice strategies.
FAQ: Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder where children know what they want to say but struggle to coordinate the mouth movements needed for clear speech.
How common is CAS?
CAS is considered rare compared to other speech disorders. Because it shares features with other difficulties, a specialist speech pathologist is needed for an accurate diagnosis.
How is CAS diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by a speech pathologist with experience in motor speech disorders. It involves reviewing medical and developmental history, using assessments, and observing how a child sequences sounds and words.
Can CAS be cured?
CAS is not something children “grow out of.” With early, intensive, and targeted speech therapy, children can make significant progress in clarity, confidence, and communication skills. Some may require ongoing support.
What is the best treatment for CAS?
Research shows motor-based, intensive therapy is most effective. At Perth Speech Therapy, we use PROMPT Therapy and other evidence-based approaches that focus on movement, frequent practice, and meaningful words.
Will my child always need therapy?
It depends on the severity of CAS and whether there are other developmental conditions. Many children improve significantly with early intervention, while others may benefit from longer-term support.
When should I see a speech pathologist?
If your child’s speech is very hard to understand, inconsistent, or effortful, or if they are not talking as expected for their age, it’s important to seek an assessment from a qualified speech pathologist.
When to Seek Help
Seek professional advice if:
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Your child’s speech is very hard to understand.
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Errors are inconsistent and effortful.
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Talking is significantly delayed.
👉 . Perth Speech Therapy offers assessment and therapy tailored to CAS. Perth Speech Therapy have TRAINED speech Pathologists in PROMPT.