“Navigating the Emotional Aspects of Apraxia: My Child’s Story”

– By Stacey Mahoney

As a parent of a child with apraxia, I’ve learned that this neurological speech disorder affects not only communication but also emotional well-being. My son has developed “memorized phrases” that serve as coping mechanisms in situations where he feels misunderstood or frustrated.

As a parent of a child with apraxia, I’ve learned that this neurological speech disorder affects not only communication but also emotional well-being. My son has developed “memorized phrases” that serve as coping mechanisms in situations where he feels misunderstood or frustrated.

Phrases like “never mind,” “forget it,” “I don’t know,” and “I don’t remember” have become ingrained in his vocabulary, often used as a defense against those who lack patience or understanding. It’s heartbreaking to see him resort to these phrases, but it’s also a testament to his resilience and adaptability.

What’s striking is that these memorized phrases often include sounds that my son is still working to master due to speech errors and inconsistencies. This highlights the complexities of apraxia and the remarkable ways our children compensate and adapt.

One particular phenomenon that stands out is when my son is asked a question by someone he perceives as impatient. He’ll often turn to me and say, “You tell her/him.” This breaks my heart, as it’s clear he’s protecting himself from potential frustration or disappointment.

These experiences have taught me that apraxia is not just about speech; it’s also about emotional regulation, self-protection, and resilience. Our children need us to be patient, understanding, and supportive as they navigate the challenges of apraxia.

As I reflect on my son’s journey, I’m reminded that our children’s minds are incredibly capable and resourceful. They deserve our compassion, patience, and advocacy as they work to overcome the obstacles of apraxia.

By sharing my son’s story, I hope to raise awareness about the emotional aspects of apraxia and the importance of patience, understanding, and support. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment for our children to thrive.