Resources
Overcoming Apraxia (2019) Laura Baskall Smith
When a child isn't speaking, parents are often reassured that all children develop at their own pace. Many times, experts can't agree on what is normal and offer different advice. Understandably, parents may not know where to go or with whom to consult. In many instances, there is no cause for concern; however, in others late talking could be a symptom of a more serious problem. The outdated advice to “wait and see” can cause more damage than good.In this unique and unparalleled book,
Speaking of Apraxia : A Parents' Guide to Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Leslie Lindsay, Audiobook
Does your child seem to understand much more than he can say? Does he struggle to say words that other kids his age say effortlessly? If so, he may have childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), a neurological, motor-based speech disorder that is characterized by difficulty planning and organizing the speech movements necessary for intelligible speech. Fortunately, with early, intensive speech therapy, most children can have greatly improved or normal speech.
Peachie Speechie
Peachie Speechie have loads of speech resources for FREE and lots you can purchase but we have got a code valid for new customers only and applicable to regular-priced items—one use per customer. Quote code PSAF268 to get 10% off
Apraxia of Speech Workbook: 100 activities to improve speech articulation (2023) C.Gordon
Apraxia of Speech Workbook: 100 activities to improve speech articulation and develop phonological awareness in kids with apraxia, aphasia and dyslexia.
If you are an educator who is working with a child who has apraxia of speech, you may be looking for ways to help him or her improve their communication skills. One great way to do this is by using a workbook specifically designed for kids with apraxia.
This book will provide you with activities to work on speech.
Harry Finds His Voice: A Journey with Childhood Apraxia of Speech Paperback(2024) Evyenia Michellis
Written by Australian Speech Pathologist Evyenia Michellis after struggling to find content for her clients with childhood apraxia of speech that represent a child's speech therapy journey & all the hard work they put in just to speak.
Kids are curious!
This book has been written for children with CAS, peers/classmates, siblings and other young children and their parents. It is intended for reading aloud in daycare, primary school, clinic, and home settings to facilitate discussions about CAS and speech therapy.
Why?
- To explain the challenges and journey of speech therapy for young children with CAS.
- To foster understanding among peers and siblings of children with CAS.
- To better understand what speech therapy sessions for children with CAS can involve depicted through realistic illustrations.
Billy Gets Talking: A Preschooler's Journey Overcoming Childhood Apraxia of Speech (2018)M.Kakwan
Billy was a smart boy, but he felt frustrated since it was difficult to move his lips, jaw, and tongue to clearly say the words in his head. This is a story about how Billy found his words with the help of his speech-language pathologist and his family. With hard work and each small step, Billy became happier and gained confidence when talking to his family and friends.
Written for ages 2-4, Billy's story is a relatable journey for the youngest children with a diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech. Childhood apraxia of speech is a type of speech sound disorder characterized by specific difficulty programming the correct oral motor movements for the production of speech sounds.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Dive into the intricate world of Childhood Apraxia of Speech with our comprehensive guide. From defining the disorder to exploring its neural underpinnings and assessing prognostic factors, this treatise provides an in-depth examination of CAS from multiple angles.
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Tell us about any good resources you come across
Need more resources we have loads across the website
Diagnosis of Speech Apraxia – Understanding CAS and AOS
Speech Therapy for Apraxia – Approaches for Children & Adults
Anything but silent (2019)
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
One family's experience of going through apraxia of speech
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
Concise, easy-to-understand overview of current practice in articulation disorders
Mikey's Wish Foundation Communication Lanyard
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
Children's Speech Sound Disorders Caroline Bowen (2023)
All proceeds to Mikey's Wish Foundation using this link.
Resources for Childhood Apraxia of Speech
The Boy Who Couldn't Speak, Yet Jordan Christian Levan (2021)
The Big Book of Little Sounds 2: Speech Delay and Apraxia, Daugherty (2023)
Jordan was a boy in elementary school who couldn't speak yet, so he was trapped inside his brain in Jordan's World. Jordan has Verbal Apraxia, also known as Childhood Apraxia of Speech, a neurological speech disorder. He knows what he wants to say, but his words don't always come out
The Big Book of Little Sounds 2: Speech Delay and Apraxia, Daugherty (2023)
The Big Book of Little Sounds 2: Speech Delay and Apraxia, Daugherty (2023)
"The Big Book of Little Sounds" is a great resource for parents, teachers and speech therapists to entice our littlest speakers to repeat and grow while working on vowel & consonant consistency.
A Chicago Speech Therapy Resource What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech Kindle Ed. (2018)
An illustrated guide that explains Childhood Apraxia of Speech in a parent-friendly manner. This guide also provides helpful strategies to use within the home to enhance a child's speech and language.
Voice of truth, Tori Starling (2024)
Tori Starling’s son, Jake, had always been a quiet, happy baby. But when the silence stretched into his toddler years, Tori knew something was wrong. Diving into speech therapy, Jake made some progress, but on the day before his third birthday, he was finally given a concrete diagnosis: Jake had apraxia of speech, a disorder where the brain knows what to say, but the mouth, tongue, and jaw simply don’t cooperate
Finding your voice Jason Powe (2022)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Card- Adult or Child
When new student, Violet, joins Mr. Garcia's class, everyone gives her a warm welcome. Especially Mandy and two become fast friends. Mandy admires Violet, especially her confidence when talking in front of the whole class. Even if Violet does it a little differently than most (Violet has apraxia of speech, which means she uses a tablet to help her speak).
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Card- Adult or Child
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Card- Adult or Child
Link goes to Mikey's Wish Foundation Shop. All proceeds go to Mikey's Wish Foundation
Therapy resources and assessments
Free- Super Duper Publications HandyHandouts - Articulation and Phonology
Speech Therapy Resources
Dynamic Evaluation of Motor Speech Skills (DEMSS) Manual
by Edythe A. Strand (author) & Rebecca J. McCauley https://amzn.to/4bj6xAf
Dysarthria and Apraxia of Speech: A Clinical Guide to Motor Speech Disorders — Assessment, Differential Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning
by Caleb Shah (Author), Priya Winslow (Author) https://amzn.to/4v4oU31
Therapy resources and assessments
Michaela Silsby from Spilling the Tea on Autism and ADHD writes-
Raising children is never easy, but when you’re a parent to SEND children, each with their own needs and challenges, the financial and emotional weight becomes something very few people ever speak about.
It’s a reality hidden in plain sight.
Carer’s Allowance, the lifeline that’s supposed to recognise the work we do, doesn’t even scratch the surface.
It doesn’t come close to a living wage.
The truth is, many of us are working round the clock: managing meltdowns, hospital appointments, paperwork, therapies, sleepless nights.
In reality a lot of us are very capable and would be earning a fair and decent wage, IF we could get into work around our children’s needs- unfortunately it just isn’t possible a lot of the time!
Caring is a full-time job. Yet, society doesn’t value it as one, often we’re told, “You decided to have kids, the system shouldn’t have to support them!” 
.
At what point in society did we decide that you have to earn the right to basic needs being met made on the basis of how much someone can contribute to society ?
And then comes the cliff-edge at 16.
The moment our children hit that age, DLA ends.
Suddenly, we’re forced into another exhausting battle to apply for PIP, where the criteria are narrower, harsher, and stacked against young people who may not be “disabled enough” on paper — but in reality, can’t step into employment straight away. Most don’t.
Many can’t. But the system doesn’t account for that gap.
So what happens then? Parents are left funding and caring for an adult who the system refuses to support.
The government says these young people should now be entitled to PIP, yet time and time again they are turned away, denied, or caught in endless appeals.
Meanwhile, we’re still here, parents who often cannot work because the caring never stops — expected to stretch the same crumbs of support even further.
How can that be normal? How is it fair to leave families in this impossible situation?
And even if our young people want to step into work, where are the opportunities? There simply aren’t enough. Disabled people — and especially disabled young people, face doors closed at every turn.
Workplaces too often lack inclusiveness, flexibility, or even the most basic understanding of different needs.
If society built more truly inclusive opportunities, perhaps our children would stand a real chance at employment, independence, and dignity.
Instead, they’re left excluded, written off before they’ve even had the chance to begin.
The truth is, we are already stretched to breaking point, already running households on one income, if we’re lucky enough to have that.
The maths doesn’t add up, and the toll is crushing.
This isn’t talked about enough. The financial strain is constant, the fear for our children’s futures is overwhelming, and the support simply isn’t there.
The government leans on our unpaid labour while offering crumbs in return.
Parents of SEND children are doing the impossible every single day.
But we shouldn’t have to do it in silence. It’s time this struggle was acknowledged. It’s time people realised the true cost, financial and emotional, of raising children in a system that refuses to provide real support.
Because right now, it’s really, really hard. And that truth deserves to be spoken.
With Love, Michaela
For some reason, adults have decided that the way you speak is a direct link to your IQ capabilities and is an indicator as to whether or not they will respect you. Honestly, it’s the worst. The predujice needs to stop,
Anon. Dyspraxia Magazine 2024
Professional and adult apraxia of speech resources
The Complete Activity Book for Stroke Recovery (2022)
The Complete Activity Book for Stroke Recovery: Mental Rehabilitation Exercises & Puzzles Designed to Help Stroke Patients Recover From Aphasia & Regain Cognitive Abilities, Motor Skills & Speech
Visual Timetable for Adults Visual Schedule communication cards
Reduce anxiety and bring calm by showing an elderly person, stroke victim, adult with learning difficulties or dementia sufferer what is happening in their day using these visual cards, allowing them to feel a sense of control and therefore more settled.
Communication Book (2024)
Enables functional communication
Reduces anxiety
Help develop literacy skills
This 24 page portable discreet book contains 24 full colour symbols and images 20 symbols per page.
You could also make a resource of your own by downloading free materials from the web but this is a pre-made book so may be easier.
Motor Speech Disorders: Substrates, Differential Diagnosis, and Management (2019)
Motor Speech Disorders: Substrates, Differential Diagnosis, and Management (2019)
Ensure you’re up to speed with the most recent findings in motor speech disorders. One of the most trusted sources on this topic, Motor Speech Disorders integrates the latest neurological research with the realities of clinical practice
Stroke Recovery Toolkit (2025)
Motor Speech Disorders: Substrates, Differential Diagnosis, and Management (2019)
Stroke Recovery Toolkit (2025)
The Stroke Recovery Toolkit: Your Essential Guide to Regaining Strength, Confidence & Independence
A Stroke May Change Your Life But It Doesn’t Define Your Future. Speech & Communication Enhancement Interactive activities to improve verbal fluency, word retrieval, and pronunciation.
Law, Employment, Studying, Driving, Leisure and recreation
Speech apraxia discrimination and the law
There is very little formal information and guides, specific to speech apraxia. Sites on more common speech disorders such as stammering will have better links.
Stammeringlaw - Disability discrimination and stuttering/stammering: Equality Act 2010
Great website covering all areas of e law with regards to speech but equally relevant to speech apraxia. The site contains an extensive collection of cases, real-life examples and practical material. It will be useful not only to people who stammer, but also to lawyers, employers, educators, service providers and public authorities.
Law Centres Network: Their solicitors may provide you with free advice and representation.
Universities may have FREE legal clinics staffed by students and staff from student law departments.
Equality Advisory and Support Service: Provides information, advice, and support on discrimination issues. It replaces the Equality and Human Rights Commission helpline.
Home | Disability Law Service : May be able to provide free legal advice to disabled people and representation where appropriate
Citizens Advice: They can help you negotiate with an employer and may, in some cases, be able to represent you at a hearing
Equality Advisory and Support Service: Provides information, advice, and support on discrimination issues. It replaces the Equality and Human Rights Commission helpline.
Home | Disability Law Service : May be able to provide free legal advice to disabled people and representation where appropriate
Citizens Advice: They can help you negotiate with an employer and may, in some cases, be able to represent you at a hearing.
Financial support-Benefits
You may be eligible for certain benefits
Personal Independence Payment - Citizens Advice , Scope Preparing for your PIP assessment | Disability charity Scope UK , or Turn2Us Turn2us Benefits Calculator guidance Personal Independence Payment (PIP): How to claim - GOV.UK
Benefits and financial support if you're disabled or have a health condition - GOV.UK
Financial support for individuals with Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech
Studying- financial support
Do not limit your course choice due to speech apraxia. Think what would like to study first and then get connected with any support you may need. Courses where here may be a large speaking element are equally accessible with the right support.
You can get a range of support at college or university.
Further Education (College): Support is usually through Learning Support or Disability Services. You might also qualify for Access to Work if you’re doing a traineeship or apprenticeship.
For university Disabled Student Allowance is not usually repayable, covers essential disability-related costs, and can include a laptop, accessories, and software.
Get active with the free We Are Undefeatable app
Driving and passengers
Having speech apraxia should not in itself stop you learning to drive or getting a licence however you might need some additional checks especially if you have other health conditions.
If your dyspraxia is caused by a stroke, you normally must not. drive a car for at least a month. You should always check with your driving authority/ insurance/ doctor if you have any concerns or need to declare any conditions.
You may want to carry
- Personal details: name, emergency contact and key medical notes that responders can read quickly.
- Communication preferences: plain-English prompts explaining how you prefer to be addressed, supported or calmed.
- Pain map images: simple body diagrams so you can point to where it hurts without speaking.
The Blue Badge scheme (UK)
The Blue Badge scheme provides a range of parking concessions for people with severe mobility problems who have difficulty using public transport. The scheme operates throughout the UK.
The concessions apply to on-street parking and include free use of parking meters and pay-and-display bays. Badge holders may also be exempt from limits on parking times and can park for up to three hours on single and double yellow lines as long as they are not causing an obstruction (except where there is a ban on loading or unloading or other restrictions).
While the scheme operates throughout the UK, there are small variations in its application in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Reasonable adjustments at the practical test web info
Mobility centres
There are a number of accredited mobility centres around the country which can offer information, advice and help on driving with a disability. They will also be able to carry out a full assessment of your driving skills, especially if you have lost confidence in your driving ability. This can identify any problems and help you find ways of dealing with them. At some centres you can also be assessed for a pavement vehicle, scooter or wheelchair. An assessment costs upwards of £45.
The mobility centre can advise on any adaptations to your vehicle that may be necessary to enable you to drive after a stroke. Some centres also give driving lessons to help you regain confidence or to help you learn to manage an adapted vehicle.
Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Centre can give you a list of accredited mobility centres in England and Wales. They can also send you a list of conversion specialists if you need adaptations. Similarly, MAVIS (Mobility Advice and Vehicle Information Service) can offer information and advice on all aspects of driving after a stroke, as well as assessments and details of other accredited mobility centres and conversion specialists.
Contacts
DVLA
Drivers’ Medical Unit
Longview Road
Swansea
SA99 1TU
Tel: 0870 600 0301
British Insurance Brokers Association
BIBA House
14 Bevis Marks
London
EC3A 7NT
Tel: 020 7623 9043
Leisure and recreation
Children
It is important to include children in sports options at home and at school. Not only can it provide a break from therapy but also can be essential in improving their mental health. You may need to adapt certain things for example, they may need to use AAC or hold up a card rather then shout.
Physical and sports rehabilitation in speech therapy: psychophysiological aspect
Khrabra, S., Barladin, O., Vakulenko, L., Grushko, V., & Patsula, I. (2025). Physical and sports rehabilitation in speech therapy: Psychophysiological aspect. Scientific Journal of Dragomanov Ukrainian State University. Series 15: Scientific and Pedagogical Problems of Physical Culture (Physical Culture and Sports), 3(189), 168–171. https://doi.org/10.31392/UDU-nc.series15.2025.03(189).31
Sports rehabilitation for speech disorders in children, in particular, the psychophysiological effect of the use of physical exercises and sports to improve the condition of children with speech disorders is substantiated. The use of physical and sports rehabilitation in speech therapy is a modern approach aimed at rehabilitation, covering not only speech functions, but also the general physical and emotional state of the child.
Adults with acquired speech conditions
Get active with the free We Are Undefeatable app
The We Are Undefeatable app gives you free tailored exercise programmes that can be completed anywhere, anytime, and are suitable for a range of health conditions, no matter where you are in your journey
Using phone/calls to emergency services +general communication tips.
Help with using the phone
There are services that can help if you're looking for ways to make phone calls easier. Check out Stamma.org guides for:
Using the 'Text Relay' service
Other communication tips
- Carry a card that explains you have PPAOS/AOS/CAS and that it affects speech, not understanding.
- Carry identification and emergency contact information.
- Carry paper and a pen or use a smartphone or tablet to write or type messages.
- Use drawings, pictures or photos to help you share your message.
- Use gestures or point to objects when it is hard to speak.
Speech apraxia and the workplace
These web links relate to stammering but are highly relevant to speechapraxia.
Employment - Stammeringlaw - Disability discrimination
Stammering Discrimination and the Law amended 14 June 2019_1.pdf
Are you looking for work or considering a change in your career?
Do you want to know if, how, and when you should talk about your speech apraxia? Are you worried about whether employers will assume you don’t have “good communication skills”?
If you’re applying for a job, focus beyond your speech difficulties. Highlight your skills, knowledge and experience—they are what define you as an applicant.
Presentations
Presenting “well” is about engaging content, not perfect speech. Many fluent speakers fail to connect with audiences. People will remember your ideas, not minor speech difficulties.
Video calls
Seeing yourself on screen and coping with overlaps can be tiring. Options include:
Explaining briefly at the start that speech can take more time.
Using the hands-up function to show you want to speak.
Hiding self-view if seeing yourself adds pressure.
Talking to colleagues about your apraxia
Colleagues may or may not notice your speech apraxia. They might not know how to bring it up. By explaining it in your own words, you can help them understand.
You might start with a supportive colleague or your manager. Be honest about what tasks you find challenging—for example, fast-paced meetings, making phone calls, or giving presentations.
You can also let them know how best to support you. For example: giving extra time to speak, not interrupting, or allowing alternative ways of contributing.
Meetings
Introductions, fast turn-taking, and interruptions can be challenging. You could:
Ask to speak early in the agenda.
Let others know you may need more time.
Use gestures or the “raise hand” function on video calls.
Follow up with written notes if you didn’t get to say everything.
Asking for “reasonable adjustments”
Asking for “reasonable adjustments”
REASONABLE ADJUSTMENTS AT WORK FOR PEOPLE WHO STAMMER
Are employers legally bound to make adjustments?
Yes. Under the Equality Act and the Disability Discrimination Act (NI), employers must make reasonable adjustments if they know—or could reasonably be expected to know—that you have a disability.
Even if you don’t think of yourself as “disabled”, you can still ask for adjustments if apraxia affects your day-to-day communication.
Workplace challenges and tips
Using the phone
Phone calls can be harder without visual cues, especially in open-plan offices. Ask for options such as using headsets, quieter spaces, or relying more on written communication.
Working from home
Remote work can reduce speaking demands, but it may also increase isolation. Make time to connect with colleagues in ways that feel comfortable for you.
Should I mention my speech apraxia?
Should I mention my speech apraxia?
Asking for “reasonable adjustments”
You don’t have to tell an employer about your speech apraxia on an application form. Some people choose not to mention it until they are invited to interview, reducing the chance of bias early in the process.
On the other hand, if the organisation values equality, diversity and inclusion, mentioning it upfront could strengthen your application. Some employers actively encourage people with differences or disabilities to apply.
Speech apraxia can be considered a disability under the Equality Act and the Disability Discrimination Act (NI). This means you may be entitled to reasonable adjustments.
If you’re asked to complete an equality monitoring form, you can mention it there. These forms are usually anonymous and stored separately from your application.
If you do decide to mention it, highlight the strengths that living with apraxia has given you: resilience, persistence, empathy, problem-solving, adaptability.
Excellent communication skills
Should I mention my speech apraxia?
Excellent communication skills
Job adverts often list good/excellent communication skills as essential. Don’t let this discourage you.
Good communication is not just about how speech sounds. People with speech apraxia may take longer or need more effort to get their words out—but they can still be clear, engaging, and effective communicators.
Communication is about:
Sharing the right information at the right time.
Listening and responding thoughtfully.
Using different methods—speech, writing, gesture, technology.
Employers need staff who can:
Use words thoughtfully.
Analyse, write and present information.
Build rapport with colleagues and clients.
Manage change and solve problems.
Listen and interpret.
Lead, collaborate, and motivate teams.
These are all communication skills. Having speech apraxia doesn’t take them away—you still have a lot to offer. Many organisations now understand the value of diversity, and speech differences are part of that.
Workplace challenges and tips
Should I mention my speech apraxia?
Excellent communication skills
Some parts of your job may not have been designed with speech apraxia in mind. You have the right to ask for changes that make communication easier. These are called reasonable adjustments.
Examples of adjustments:
More time to contribute in meetings.
Alternatives to phone-based tasks, or use of a quiet space for calls.
Using written methods (email, chat, shared documents) instead of speech-heavy formats.
Flexible working to reduce fatigue from speech effort.
Colleagues introducing you in client-facing situations.
Access to speech and language therapy, or time off to attend therapy.
Employer-funded communication training or technology.
Think about what would help you, then discuss this with your manager. You could also use a reasonable adjustments request form to support your discussion.
A guide to speech apraxia for employers
Introduction
The value of diversity in organisations is now widely recognised, and speech apraxia is part of that diversity. People with speech apraxia can bring a wealth of talent, skills, and unique perspectives to your organisation.
However, standard ways of working are rarely developed with people who have speech apraxia in mind. The good news is that small, thoughtful adjustments can make a big difference. And often, those changes benefit many others in your workplace too.
So, whether you’ve just hired someone with speech apraxia, have a team member who does, or want to make your recruitment processes more inclusive, here’s how you can help them thrive.
Challenging Situations
Some workplace situations may be more challenging for people with speech apraxia:
Introductions: Going around the room on the first day or during meetings can be difficult. Anxiety about being “put on the spot” can make speech harder.
Meetings: Turn-taking, interruptions, and fast-paced discussions can make it hard to get a word in. Some people with apraxia may need extra time to prepare or may use alternative ways to share input.
Video calls: Delays, overlapping speech, or needing to self-monitor on screen can add to communication effort.
Phone calls: Without visual cues, calls can be particularly challenging. Using scripts or set phrases may not be helpful, as speech can break down when flexibility is needed.
Public address systems (intercoms, tannoys, radios): Speaking in these contexts, especially when reading aloud, can be difficult.
One-to-one reviews & job interviews: These already stressful situations can add extra pressure. Someone with apraxia may worry that their speech is being judged as a reflection of their competence.
Broaching the topic
Talk to the person sensitively to find out if they have concerns about speaking at work. You might say something like:
I’ve noticed you don’t always get the chance to say as much in meetings. Is there anything we could do to make it easier for you to take part?”
“I really value your input—are there ways I can support you to share your ideas more comfortably?”
Speech apraxia can be something a person feels self-conscious about, so showing openness matters. Some people may be happy to talk openly about it, while others may be more reserved. Even if they’ve mentioned it, that doesn’t mean they want to share it with everyone. Respect their choice, but by signalling your willingness to listen, you make it easier for them to raise concerns.
You might ask how they’d like you (and colleagues) to respond if speech becomes effortful, or whether they’d prefer adjustments
Reasonable Adjustments
Adjustments may help such as:
Being invited to speak early in meetings, before anxiety builds up.
Having the Chair summarise contributions so that the message is clear even if speech breaks down.
Using alternative channels (e.g., notes, slides, emails) alongside speech.
Encourage training and opportunities in areas that play to their strengths, including those they may previously have avoided due to speech demands. The best way to help someone fulfill their potential is to show you value them for who they are, not just how they speak.
What else may help
Allowing extra time in meetings.
Offering alternative ways to contribute (e.g., written input, pre-recorded messages, shared documents).
Adjusting expectations for phone or public-speaking roles if they are not essential.
Providing communication-friendly environments (quiet spaces, reduced background noise, respectful turn-taking).
here may be simple changes that make a huge difference to how an employee performs and feels at work. The best approach is to discuss adjustments openly and ask the person what would help.
Adjustments: Your Duty
If you know or could reasonably be expected to know that an employee has a disability under the Equality Act (or the Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland), you may have a legal duty to make adjustments.
This duty still applies even if the person has not formally disclosed their condition. If you suspect speech is causing workplace barriers, it’s worth raising the topic sensitively.
Going to college or university
Going to University or College with Speech Apraxia
Are you already at university or college, or planning to go soon? If you have speech apraxia, you might be wondering what support is available to make life easier.
Starting higher education can be exciting but also daunting — especially when courses often expect you to take part in tutorials, group discussions, or presentations. Even things like “let’s go round and introduce ourselves” can feel stressful.
The good news is: you don’t have to face this alone. Support is available, and you are entitled to reasonable adjustments that can make your course more accessible.
Reach out to Student Services
If you’re comfortable sharing that you have speech apraxia, your university or college can put support in place for you. The earlier you do this, the easier it is to set things up before your course starts.
Every university has services to support students — usually a general Wellbeing Service and a Disability Service. These are there to make sure that students with communication differences, like speech apraxia, aren’t disadvantaged.
Some people feel unsure about contacting Disability Services — especially if they don’t see speech apraxia as a disability. But remember: formal adjustments (such as changes to how you are assessed) usually need to go through them. If speech apraxia affects your academic experience, you are legally entitled to support.You could talk to them directly, or start by speaking with your personal tutor and showing them our Guide for University Staff (coming soon from Speech Apraxia UK).
Reasonable Adjustments
Reasonable Adjustments
Thanks to the Equality Act 2010 (or the Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland), colleges and universities must make “reasonable adjustments” so that you’re not at a disadvantage because of speech apraxia.
Introductions
If saying your name or speaking spontaneously is difficult, you could request adjustments such as:
- Tutors introducing everyone at the start of a session.
- Using name cards or badges.
- Choosing when (or if) you introduce yourself.
- Pairing up and introducing each other.
Day to day studies
Reasonable Adjustments
Presentations
Presentations are often a big worry. Adjustments might include:
- Pre-recording your presentation instead of doing it live.
- Co-presenting with another student.
- Reading from a script.
- Extra time if the presentation is timed.
- Giving the presentation in a smaller, less formal setting.
- Submitting a written, visual, or multimedia piece instead of a live talk.
Oral Exams & Assessments
If oral elements are part of your grade, you could ask for:
- Extra time.
- Alternative assessment formats (e.g. written work, recorded answers).
- Information given to examiners in advance about speech apraxia.
- Adjustments to marking criteria — focusing on communication and content rather than speech clarity.
Medical evidence
Your university might ask for evidence to confirm your diagnosis and explain its impact. You could:
- Ask your GP for a letter (note: some may charge a small fee).
- Request a report from your Speech & Language Therapist (NHS or private).
Check with Student Support Services about what exactly they need. Many say 'recent' evidence but if yours is not (and this is an issue), remind them speech apraxia is a lifelong condition (or ask them to contact Speech Apraxia UK)
Looking After Your Wellbeing
University life can feel overwhelming at times. If speech apraxia makes social or academic situations harder, it’s important to look after your mental health too.
Support is available through:
- Student Minds – peer support groups for students. Mental Health Support – For UK University Students | Student Minds
- The Mix – free, confidential support for young people. Call 0808 808 4994 (daily, 4–11pm). The Mix
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – support for men and boys. Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight). Suicide Prevention Charity | Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
- Samaritans – 24/7 listening support. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
Films on apraxia of speech
Lost for words (2024)
Chris Kamara: Lost for Words - ITVX Chris has been diagnosed with Primary Apraxia of Speech, which is a rare condition and his speech doesn't necessarily sound typical for those who have Apraxia of Speech. However, it raises awareness of the condition, and provides a really good insight into the impact that this acquired motor speech disorder can have on an individual's life, confidence and identity. It also touches on childhood apraxia of speech and a lack of funding for SLT services. It features our fantastic Friend of Speech Apraxia, Georgia Wilson
My Beautiful Broken Brain – (2014)
This documentary film traces the emotional journey of Londoner Lotje Sodderland after she suffered a hemorrhagic stroke in 2011 at the age of 34, losing her ability to read, write, and speak coherently. The film covers the daily challenges that Lottje experienced with dysphasia and apraxia, as well as memory deficits, confusion, sensory perception changes, fatigue, and frustration; typical effects of stroke. My Beautiful Broken Brain - Official Trailer - Netflix Documentary [HD] - YouTube
Finding your voice
Finding your voice
Apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with an apraxia diagnosis generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say. However, they have difficulty learning or carrying out the complex sequenced movements that are necessary for intelligible speech. Evan Gardner was diagnosed with it as a child.
For his master’s thesis in International Communication, Mr. Gardner crafted a documentary that not only charts his life with apraxia, but also the experiences of others—all done to draw attention to a relatively unknown condition. The film, Finding Our Voice, shares the many success stories of people diagnosed with apraxia and the resources at their disposal.
“I had been looking to do a documentary for quite some time, and it felt like the perfect moment,” Mr. Gardner recently said.
Basilio G. Monteiro, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Mass Communication in The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies, was Mr. Gardner’s instructor and gave him permission to film a documentary rather than write a standard thesis.
“Evan’s commitment to excellence is commendable,” Dr. Monteiro stressed. “His documentary was eye opening for me, as it featured a condition I never knew existed. Evan worked diligently and methodically to present his thesis visually, and I am so glad his work is getting national attention and becoming a valuable tool for public education.”
It has been an official selection at film festivals across the US, such as the Oneota Film Festival, Disorder: The Rare Disease Film Festival, YoFiFest: the Yonkers Film Festival, Queen City Cinephiles, the Long Island International Film Expo, and the Chain NYC Film Festival. Distributed by Films Media Group, the film is available to all universities and nonprofits. “The deal was a direct result of all of the attention it received at the festivals,” Mr. Gardner said.
“I knew I had apraxia, but I never really understood it,” Mr. Gardner observed. “It was a great opportunity for me to learn about it, so it is an educational piece with my personal story as well.”
In the film, Mr. Gardner interviews his mother about his early childhood and then transitions to the stories of children and their families struggling with apraxia today. Also interviewed are speech pathologists with extensive experience treating children diagnosed with apraxia.
Mr. Gardner found his subjects through Apraxia Kids, the leading nonprofit organization providing support to children with apraxia and their families. He noted that the families he spoke with were happy to share their stories and let other families know there is hope and that they are not alone.
There is a much greater understanding of apraxia today, Mr. Gardner noted, adding that it was not an official diagnosis until the mid-1980s. Born in 1992, he spoke to several of his contemporaries, and their stories provide a roadmap of hope for children with apraxia today.
“One of the young adults I interviewed in the film was given free treatment by UCLA’s Speech Pathology Clinic because she was the first child they ever saw with apraxia. She was literally number one. It is still relatively new in the speech pathology world, but things are much better. Still, there is much to be done.”
“My goal is for as many people to see the film as possible,” Mr. Gardner reflected. The people he interviewed demonstrate that the problems apraxia present are only a piece of their life’s puzzle. “I took this journey to give a voice to those who struggle to make theirs heard—but they ended up giving me a voice of my own.”https://vimeo.com/ondemand/findingourvoice
Organisations, apps and resources
Practical, evidence-based and personal support for adults with acquired or developmental apraxia of speech, families, and professionals. Speech Apraxia UK does not endorse any of these sites.
What is Apraxia of Speech? Overview and Definitions
Abrapraxia – Dr. ApraxIA
- Technology and AI support for families affected by Childhood Apraxia of Speech.
- Available 24 hours a day.
- Text or voice chat with Dr. ApraxIA.
- https://abrapraxia.com
Clinical information on speech sound disorders | RCSLT
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, the UK professional body, provides information and resources
What Is Apraxia of Speech? | NIDCD A clear summary of causes, symptoms, and diagnosis from the National Institute of Deafness and other Communication Disorders
Childhood Apraxia of Speech The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association page on childhood apraxia of speech.
Apraxia of Speech in Adults Detailed clinical information and treatment strategies for speech apraxia from the American Speech and Hearing Association
Apraxia Kids (International) USA based CAS charity
SpeechBITE Database A searchable database of evidence-based interventions for speech-language disorders, including apraxia.
https://www.geneticsofspeech.org.au/research/
Information on genetic links to speech apraxia.
Brazil Speech Apraxia Association
Teacher /school support for additional needs
Training, resources, case studies
Implementation Resources | High-Leverage Practices
Handouts, training and resources
Accessing Speech and Language Therapy
UK Services
Independent Speech and Language Therapists | ASLTIP Find an independent therapist specialising in motor speech disorders near you.
IASLT – Irish Association of SLTs Ireland-specific SLT guidance and access information.
Lived Experience & Personal Stories
Fighting for My Voice – Jordan's Story A moving account of growing up with verbal apraxia, promoting awareness and resilience.
Mikey's Wish Foundation | Supporting Speech, Language and communication needs Charity/ Campaign by Mikey Akers, who has Childhood Apraxia of Speech to fund and improve access to speech therapy.
Treatment Approaches & Clinical Tools
Home - Cuespeak Therapy app for acquired apraxia of speech
ReST Rapid Syllable Transition Training – ReST Rapid Syllable Transition TrainingReST therapy and information page. .
Tactus Therapy Evidence-based apps for practicing speech and language at home.
Dysphonia International Information on muscle tension dysphonia and related voice disorders.
STAMMA – Stammering Support Helpful for exploring co-occurring or differential diagnoses such as stammering and cluttering.
Neurogenic Stuttering | Stuttering Foundation: A Nonprofit Organization Helping Those Who Stutter
National Autism Society Understanding autism, often co-occurring with verbal dyspraxia.
Child Apraxia Treatment: Once Upon a Time Foundation Resource for children with apraxia of speech but has some great training
Understanding Voice Production - THE VOICE FOUNDATION
Assistive Technology & AAC
CALL Scotland AAC Resource Finder Searchable tool to explore communication devices or access aids.
Home - Communication Access UK Communication Access UK is an initiative to improve the lives of people with communication difficulties.
ACE Centre AAC assessments, software, and resources.
Communication Matters National charity supporting AAC users via information, training, and community events.
TechAbility Promotes assistive tech in education and beyond.
Smartbox Assistive Technology AAC devices and solutions tailored to individual needs.
AbilityNet Digital accessibility support and tech solutions for people with communication impairments.
https://makaton.org Makaton resources and webinars
Speakability | Aphasia Information | Communication Tools useful communication resources
Aphasia
Aphasia Support Support for those with speech and language difficulties and their families.
Say Aphasia Group support and confidence-building resources.
Ask the Expert Webinars - National Aphasia Association
Occupational Therapy & Hearing Services
NHS OT Services | RCOT Help with sensory, coordination, and daily living tasks.
Action on Hearing Loss (RNID) Support for hearing loss impacting speech and communication.
Education, Employment & Training
Disability Rights UK Advice on rights, adjustments, and learning support.
Access to Work: get support if you have a disability or health condition: What Access to Work is - GOV.UK Government funding for workplace support and tech.
Careers advice - job profiles, information and resources | National Careers Service Career guidance and employment support with disability accommodations.
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) Financial support for university students with speech and language needs.
Advice for disabled students and students with SEND | UCAS Universities and Colleges Admissions Service
Help Sheets – Disabled At Uni Reasonable adjustments letter templates
Disability Rights UK
https://www.disabilityrights
Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
https://askjan.org
Public speaking and Communication support
Toastmasters International -Home A global nonprofit that helps people improve public speaking and leadership skills through local clubs.
Speakers Trust - Speak and be heard. Offers workshops and resources to help young people and community groups develop speaking confidence.
Lessons Worth Sharing | TED-Ed YouTube Channels like TED-Ed or Speak with Impact – Great for bite-sized tips and examples of effective delivery.
Talking Mats Visual communication support tool.
Select age or setting | Commtap 6 free activities to support speech, language, and communication development
www.communicationtherapyinternational.org.
Podcasts
Talking Speech Apraxia - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Our official podcast!
The Apraxia Foundation Podcast - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Interviews on all things
apraxia related.
Speech Pathology Australia Podcast
Childhood Apraxia of Speech and Dynamic Systems Theory
We need diversity within the speech and language profession
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
Input on guidance to support disabled SLT students | RCSLT The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists takes an 'anti-ableist stance towards supporting disabled people on pre-registration SLT courses, i.e. an anti-discriminative/prejudiced view towards disability. It intends to support HEIs and PEs in understanding the needs of and promote the equality of access for disabled students to undertake a pre-registration SLT course '. The disabled student experience during training | RCSLT Become a speech and language therapist | RCSLT .
Thinking about training when you have speech apraxia?
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
First, good for you! We need more people with speech differences in the profession!
The RCSLT produces guidance which includes information for disabled students about what they can expect and how to access appropriate support. It includes the responsibilities of educational institutions and placement educators such as reasonable adjustments and the support they offer e.g. DSA, support summaries.
Don't be put off applying for training to be a speech and language therapist by your apraxia. Times are very different now and it is not a barrier but an asset to our profession.
Neurodiversity in speech and language therapy
Training to be a speech and language therapist/pathologist with a speech difference
Neurodiversity in speech and language therapy
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ixncSUGyr3uDwGUafECnp?si=WuRvByk_SKeFcjA97ZtdUA
Read my journey
The confidence to re-apply after being knocked back 25 years ago
Training for Speech and Language Professionals
Getting trained
Book Training with Speech Apraxia UK
To develop competence in working with Speech Apraxia, a variety of training opportunities are available:
- A range of free online training can be found under individual therapy approaches on our website:
- Videos and helpful links are available throughout the website for additional learning
- Clinical Excellence Networks (CENs) offer a low-cost way to access training, support, and expert advice
- Speech Apraxia International also hosts online webinars, most of which are free to attend and we have a CPD library which holds past trainings and new content https://patreon.com/SpeechApraxiaInternational?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
Book Training with Speech Apraxia UK
Book Training with Speech Apraxia UK
Lived Experience Training is available free of charge to unfunded voluntary groups when delivered online.
Speech Apraxia UK offers a variety of training options, including both knowledge-based and skills-based courses for a small fee. We also collaborate with external training providers to deliver courses that are linked to formal qualifications.
Dosage for Speech Sound Disorders
FREE speech therapy tools and websites for therapists
Video is Lorraine Bamblett explaining phonological processes and which are typical/atypical
free SLP toolkit, Free SLP resources, voice, Best SLP Website -
My favorite site for speech therapists with loads of fun speech games
100s of resources on apraxia
https://slpa.ca/en-us/free-stuff
ABCya! • Learning Games and Apps for Kids
Online Games for Kids - Funbrain
Receive a free target selection handout for Childhood Apraxia of Speech.
Learn effective evidence based tips to boost progress in your apraxia sessions
FREE DTTC training
Diagnosis and Treatment of CAS Using
Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC)
FREE online video course taught by Dr. Edythe Strand in assessment and treatment of CAS (childhood apraxia of speech) using evidence-based treatment methods.
How to conduct a Diagnostic Evaluation of Articulation and Phonology (DEAP) - UK version.
In this video Lorraine Banblett runs through the various elements of the DEAP and how you would conduct and score up the subtests. She goes through the summary screen and demonstrates how the child's performance in this informs the choice of the next subtests. She also briefly go over how to use the norms of the DEAP. Lorraine is one our 'Friends of Speech Apraxia'
Assessment
Speech assessment tools - Multilingual Children's Speech
Intelligibility in Context Scale (ICS, McLeod, Harrison, & McCormack, 2012a)
Microsoft Word - ICS instructions - VERSION 1 - November 2012.docx
English IPA Consonants
A summary of English IPA Consonants with an overview of the Voice, Place, Manner label of each and what this means. Useful for Speech and Language Therapy students as part of revision for Phonetics, and for before commencing an initial paediatric placement.
English Monophthong Transcription
English Monophthong Transcription
Vowel transciption with Lorraine Bamblett, an excellent resource.
There are fantastic online portals for training resources
Impact learning from South Africa has a range of training resources and is reasonably priced
Childhood apraxia knowledge in SLTs
What do SLTs perceive as their knowledge in Childhood Apraxia of Speech treatment?
A literature review by Rowntree (2024) examined the research question, 'Do SLTs perceive they have clinical knowledge in Childhood Apraxia of Speech treatment?' and found that speech and language therapists (SLTs) generally felt they lacked sufficient knowledge and training in Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) treatment, with many relying on continuing education courses and conferences to gain knowledge.
Speech Apraxia resources around the world
Italy
South Africa
South Africa
The italian professional landscape is roughly structured as follows:
- The Federazione Logopedisti Italiani (FLI), serves as the main professional and scientific association for speech and language therapists in Italy.
- The Federazione national ordini TSRM and PSTRP functions as the national regulatory and licensing bodies.
- The Commitions of Albo Logopedisti represent the profession within the local professional regulatory boards.
- There in also the Associazione Scientifica Italiana Logopedia (ASIL), which is the scientific society focused on research and evidence-based clinical guidelines.
For apraxia in general , including developmental verbal apraxia, the most widely recognized national organization in Italy is AIDEE. AIDEE has historically been the italian association most actively in:
Developmental apraxia;
Public awareness and advocacy;
Family support;
Training for healthcare professionals and teachers;
National scientific conferences;
and The dissemination of diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines.
However, when specifically referring to developmental Verbal Dyspraxia / Chilhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), the strongest scientific and professional point of reference in recent years has increasingly emerged within the Federazione Logopedisti Italiani, which has established a dedicated special interest group on Developmental Verbal Dyspraxia.
In Italy, the most commonly used approaches for Childhood Apraxia of Speech / Developmental Verbal Dyspraxia are:
PROMPT,
DTTC,
K-SLP (the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol),
and AAC.
South Africa
South Africa
South Africa
South African Speech-Language Hearing Association - is a good resource - www.saslha.co.za
Saslha African Connections Project -Connecting Speech Therapists and Audiogists Across Africa.
The ACP aims to promote the fields of Speech Therapy and Audiology in Africa, by creating networking & referral opportunities, as well as providing resources for professionals working in those fields.