Childhood Dysarthria

What are the Symptoms of Dysarthria in Children?

The symptoms of dysarthria in children can vary, but there are several common signs to watch out for. If your child exhibits any of the following, it may indicate dysarthria:

• Slurred or mumbled speech that is hard to understand.
• Speaking slowly or too fast.
• Speaking too softly.
• Difficulty moving the tongue, lips, and jaw properly.
• Robotic or choppy speech.
• Hoarse or breathy voice, or sounding like they have a stuffy nose.

If you notice these symptoms in your child, it is important to seek medical attention. A speech-language pathologist can assess your child’s speech and language skills to determine if they have dysarthria or another speech disorder.

Common Types of Dysarthria in Children

Dysarthria can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause and the specific muscles affected. Some common types of dysarthria in children include:

Spastic Dysarthria

This type of dysarthria is characterized by increased muscle tone, leading to stiffness and difficulty controlling movements.

Flaccid Dysarthria

Flaccid dysarthria occurs when there is weakness or reduced muscle tone, resulting in floppy or weak movements.

Ataxic Dysarthria

Ataxic dysarthria is characterized by problems with coordination and balance, leading to uncoordinated movements of the oral muscles.

Hypokinetic or Hyperkinetic Dysarthria

Hypokinetic dysarthria is associated with Parkinson’s disease and involves reduced movement and muscle rigidity, while Hyperkinetic dysarthria involves involuntary movements, such as tremors or tics, affecting speech production.

Mixed Dysarthria

Mixed dysarthria occurs when a child presents with a combination of different types of dysarthria.

It is important to note that dysarthria can co-occur with other speech and language difficulties, such as apraxia and aphasia. A comprehensive evaluation by a speech-language pathologist can help determine the specific type of dysarthria and guide treatment planning.

What are the Causes of Childhood Dysarthria?

Childhood dysarthria can have various causes, some of the most common include:

• Brain Damage or Injury: Traumatic brain injuries, such as falls or accidents, can damage the neural pathways responsible for speech production, leading to dysarthria.
• Muscular and Nerve Disorders: Conditions like muscular dystrophy or Parkinson’s disease can weaken or affect the nerves that control the oral and respiratory muscles, resulting in dysarthria.
• Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays may experience difficulties in coordinating the movements of their oral muscles, leading to dysarthria.

It is vital to consult with a pediatric neurologist or a specialist in child behavior to get an accurate diagnosis and determine the underlying cause of dysarthria in your child.

Childhood Dysarthria Treatment: Let’s Explore Your Options

While dysarthria cannot be fully cured or reversed, there are various treatment options available to help improve communication and speaking abilities in children. The primary goal of treatment is to rehabilitate the affected muscles and enhance muscle control. Let’s explore some common treatment approaches for childhood dysarthria.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is a fundamental treatment option for children with dysarthria. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can work with your child to improve their communication skills and overcome the challenges associated with dysarthria. The therapy sessions may include:

• Exercises to strengthen mouth muscles.
• Techniques to slow down speech.
• Strategies to speak louder.
• Articulation practice.
• Chewing and swallowing exercises.
• Communication techniques.

Assistive Technology

In more severe cases of dysarthria, assistive technology may be recommended to support communication. Communication devices, such as letterboards, picture boards, or specialized computers with message displays. These devices enable children to communicate by selecting symbols or typing messages, which are then converted into spoken words. Assistive technology can greatly improve a child’s independence and quality of life.

The Benefits of Speech Therapy for Pediatric Dysarthria

Speech therapy plays a vital role in the treatment of pediatric dysarthria. It offers several benefits that can positively impact a child’s communication skills and overall well-being. Here are some key advantages of speech therapy for children with dysarthria:

• Improved speech clarity: Speech therapy can help children articulate sounds more clearly, enhancing their overall intelligibility.
• Enhanced breath control: Children with dysarthria often struggle with breath control while speaking. Speech therapy can improve respiratory support, leading to better vocal control and projection.
• Increased vocabulary and language skills: Speech therapy can help expand a child’s vocabulary and improve their understanding and use of language.
• Boosted self-confidence: By improving speech and communication abilities, speech therapy can boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence in social interactions.
• Better swallowing and oral motor skills: Speech therapy can address difficulties with chewing, swallowing, and other oral motor functions often associated with dysarthria.
• Tailored treatment plans: Speech therapy is personalized to meet each child’s unique needs and goals, ensuring the most effective and targeted interventions.

Speech Therapy for Pediatric Dysarthria with Circle of Care

At Circle of Care, we understand the challenges faced by children with dysarthria and their families. Our team of dedicated speech-language pathologists is experienced in providing comprehensive and compassionate care for children with communication disorders. Our speech therapy programs are tailored to each child’s specific needs and goals as we utilize evidence-based techniques and individualized treatment plans to maximize progress and enhance communication skills. Don’t hesitate to reach out today and start your child’s journey.