This advice-column-style blog for SLPs was authored by Pam Marshalla from 2006 to 2015, the archives of which can be explored here. Use the extensive keywords list found in the right-hand column (on mobile: at the bottom of the page) to browse specific topics, or use the search feature to locate specific words or phrases throughout the entire blog.
Frequency of Therapy with Childhood Apraxia and Dysarthria
By Pam Marshalla
Q: How often should a young child (2-4 years of age) with apraxia or dysarthria receive speech-language therapy services?
I have a baseline that all my clients with motor speech disorders have to meet. They must attend once per week for one hour at a minimum. Twice per week is very nice. Three times per week is a complete luxury. More than that is unnecessary because these children do not change very fast.
Children with motor speech disorders take a long time to change. I have found that “more therapy right now” is not the answer. “Good therapy over the long haul” is a much better solution. Please keep in mind that this is only my clinical opinion.