Verbal dyspraxia, also known as Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), is a motor planning disorder that affects a child’s ability to speak clearly and consistently. While the child knows what they want to say, the brain has difficulty coordinating the movements of the mouth, lips, and tongue to form sounds and words.
Speech may come slowly. It may sound inconsistent or unclear. But with the right supports—especially targeted speech therapy and emotional encouragement—children with verbal dyspraxia can grow into confident, expressive communicators.
At Panassea, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful consistent support can be.
Building Confidence Through Communication
Children with verbal dyspraxia often experience communication frustration. They may understand far more than they can express. This disconnect can lead to emotional outbursts, withdrawal, or even low self-esteem—especially in social settings.
That’s why supporting emotional well-being is just as important as practicing speech. When a child feels safe, understood, and celebrated, their motivation to try—and keep trying—grows.
Understanding What Your Child May Be Feeling
- “Why can’t I say what I’m thinking?”
- “Will people laugh at me?”
- “If they don’t understand me, should I stop talking?”
- “Why is it easier for my friends?”
These silent questions can deeply affect your child’s confidence. But with encouragement, empathy, and strong therapy partnerships, you can show them that their voice matters—no matter how it sounds.
Strategies to Build Communication Confidence
👂 Acknowledge and Model
When your child attempts a word, respond with encouragement—even if it’s unclear. Gently model the correct version without pressure:
Child: “Ba-da.”
Adult: “Oh! You want your bottle. Here it is!”
🧠 Celebrate Effort, Not Perfection
Say: “You tried so hard to say that! I’m proud of you.” Focusing on effort keeps the process positive and progress-oriented.
🎨 Use Multi-Modal Communication
Gestures, sign language, picture cards, and communication devices (AAC) can help your child express themselves fully. These are bridges, not barriers, to verbal speech.
📚 Read Aloud Daily
Books with rhythm, repetition, and simple language support phonemic awareness and sound production. Let your child point to pictures or finish predictable phrases.
🤝 Create a Safe Talking Environment
Avoid interrupting or correcting mid-sentence. Give your child time to finish. If needed, say: “I’m listening. Take your time.”
🎉 Celebrate “Firsts” Loudly
First clear “mama”? First time saying their name? Share it with family, teachers, and friends. Let your child feel proud and recognized.
Final Thoughts for Families
Verbal dyspraxia doesn’t mean your child can’t speak—it means their path to speech is uniquely their own. With patience, evidence-based therapy, and a nurturing home environment, your child can develop confidence in their communication—and feel proud of every sound, word, and phrase they work so hard to say.
At Panassea, we’re honored to walk this journey with families. Whether you need speech therapy, AAC support, caregiver coaching, or simply someone to listen, we’re here with resources that adapt to your reality—and celebrate your child’s voice, however it comes through.
📘 Explore More Resources
Download our free guides:
- Helping Your Child with Speech Planning
- Speech and Language Goals at Home
🎥 Upcoming Webinars
✔ Boosting Confidence in Children with CAS
✔ Integrating AAC with Verbal Therapy
✔ What to Expect from Early Speech Intervention
📩 Need help designing a home communication plan?
— we’re here to support every sound, every word, every step.
Leave a Reply