How to Use Speech Therapy to Treat Cerebral Palsy

People who have cerebral palsy (CP) often have difficulty using their facial muscles. Sometimes this type of impairment impedes normal swallowing function and vocal development. Speech pathologists use speech and language therapy to treat these impairments and improve communication, whether it be through speaking, signing or the use of electronic communication aids.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mirror
• Communication aids
• Sign language manual
• Speech and language therapist

Use Speech and Language Therapy to Treat Cerebral Palsy

1. Begin speech and language therapy as soon as possible if your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age. Children who have CP tend to show slower-than-normal verbal development, even if their CP symptoms are mild.

2. Share your concerns about your child's eating difficulties with the speech pathologist. Many of the small muscle groups used in eating are the same ones used for talking. He can begin to treat these problems in some of the first therapy sessions.

3. Hold a mirror up to the child's face during therapy so she can see the correct placement of her tongue and lips for certain sounds. It may be more helpful for her to see how she actually makes the sounds rather than just watching the therapist's mouth.

4. Develop a more extensive vocabulary with a person who already speaks well. Make lists of words that are important in the child's daily activities. Practice using these words appropriately at each session.

5. Explore alternate ways of communication with a person who cannot speak, yet has the intellectual capacity to communicate. A small child may use a picture board or computer-based aid that allows him to point to the idea he wants to express. An older child or adult who has good hand control may learn to use sign language.

6. Learn sign language yourself if that is the primary way your child communicates. Although you can speak to your child verbally, you will need to understand sign language to know what she is saying to you. Your local library should have books that teach sign language.

Tips & Warnings

• It is important to remember that most people who have cerebral palsy may be physically disabled but have normal cognitive function. It can be very frustrating to want to communicate but not be able to do so verbally. Seeing a counselor who specializes in these issues may be advised if a person is showing unusually high levels of frustration and anger.

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