Navigating Apraxia and Autism

Apraxia is a neurological condition that can have a significant impact on motor skills and communication abilities. Let's dive in and explore this intriguing condition and how it relates to autism!

Apraxia is a condition where individuals struggle to complete movements, even when they have the desire and ability to make those movements. It's like their brain has a hard time coordinating the actions needed for specific tasks. Apraxia can affect both gross motor skills, which involve larger muscle groups, and fine motor skills, which utilize smaller muscle groups. Tasks involving fine motor skills can include tying your shoes, writing your name, or even turning a page in a book. These can all be quite challenging for an autistic child with apraxia.

But here's an interesting twist—fine motor skills are not only crucial for everyday tasks but also for speech! That's why you might have heard the term "Childhood Apraxia of Speech." Apraxia can impact the coordination of the muscles involved in producing clear and fluent speech.

What is the connection between autism and apraxia? Research shows that more than 63 percent of autistic individuals also have apraxia! (Tierney et al. 2015). For autistic individuals, this can make so many day-to-day tasks challenging!

If you suspect that your autistic child might have apraxia, there are resources available to you!

Experts agree that depending on your child's specific motor difficulties, different interventions may be suggested. It is best to speak with an Occupational Therapist if you have concerns. Here are some general suggestions that may help your autistic child with apraxia:
- Find a qualified Speech Therapist: Seek the expertise of a certified speech-language pathologist who specializes in treating apraxia of speech. Regular speech therapy sessions tailored to the child's needs can help improve their motor planning, articulation, and communication skills.
- Use Visual Supports and AAC: Utilize visual aids and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods to enhance communication. Visual supports, such as picture schedules, social stories, and visual cues, can help the child understand expectations and routines. AAC tools like communication boards or speech-generating devices provide alternative means of expression when speech difficulties are present.
- Implement Sensory Integration and Accommodations: Understand and address the child's sensory sensitivities and preferences. Create an environment that supports their sensory needs and minimizes potential sensory overload. Provide sensory breaks and consider sensory integration activities. Offer accommodations, such as reducing background noise during communication attempts or adjusting lighting to facilitate better focus and attention during therapy sessions.

To better understand apraxia and the supports available for your autistic child, you can also find valuable information in an article in Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine written by Dr. Dana Johnson. Dr. Johnson, Ph.D., MS, OTR/L, is the co-founder of Empowered2, owner of Interplay Therapy Center, and Founder of Invictus Academy Tampa Bay, a non-profit private school for students with sensory-motor differences

Access Dr. Johnson's article in our article directory by clicking here.