Diagnosis and Treatment of Childhood Apraxia of Speech Among Children With Autism: Narrative Review and Clinical Recommendations

Abstract

Purpose: Treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and low verbal ability is a largely neglected area of study. Existing research focuses on language abilities; however, a subset of children with ASD also has speech sound disorders (SSDs). The purpose of this tutorial is to provide clinicians with evidence-based recommendations to guide speech assessment and treatment among children with ASD, low verbal ability, and suspected childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Method: Multifaceted search procedures were used to identify studies that have assessed or treated speech sound production among children with ASD. A narrative review and synthesis of the literature is followed by practical clinical recommendations based on best available evidence. Conclusions: It is critically important to consider all possible hindrances to the development of functional communication ability for children with ASD. Speech sound production has been identified as a key predictor of expressive language outcomes, yet there are very few studies that address assessment and treatment of SSDs among children with ASD. Less is known about the presentation of CAS among children with ASD and low verbal ability. More research is needed to determine whether existing speech assessment and treatment methods are appropriate for children with ASD, if modifications are needed, or if new methods should be designed.