Expert Insights: Childhood Apraxia of Speech Q&A with Jennie Bjorem

January 28, 2024

This blog is based off of an Instagram Live on @bjoremspeech. You can click here to hear more of the conversation including Jennie answer questions from the live audience, discuss her own experiences from her speech therapy sessions, and more.

What are the Top 5 things you are using in therapy right now when treating CAS?

The Biscuits Game with glue bunny games tops the list, offering a competitive and fun approach that encourages high repetitions.
Following closely is "Shoot the Poop," a game where children get to shoot poop into a toy toilet, making therapy sessions lively and promoting high repetitions.
Another favorite is the Monster Mix-Up game, an inventive adaptation of an old War game that's no longer available, adding a nostalgic and creative twist to the session.
I also incorporate Dixie cups in various ways, such as smashing them, building towers, tossing objects, and hiding things under them, to add a tactile and versatile element to therapy. Check out this blog post for more ideas.
Lastly, Squaregles are an excellent addition; these magnetic pieces are compatible with Bjorem cards and are fantastic for achieving high repetitions while allowing children to earn pieces to build and create. Squaregles are a bit more advanced than Magnatiles and allow for more complicated and exciting builds.

What do you do when a child doesn't like to imitate?

This is an excellent question! Understanding the root cause of why a child is reluctant to imitate is key. Could it be that they find it challenging, or maybe they're not inclined to take communication risks, as highlighted by Cari Ebert's concept of 'Communication Risk Takers'?

When faced with a child hesitant to imitate, it's crucial to focus intensively on fostering a growth mindset. This involves revisiting the Principles of Motor Learning to comprehend their actions and motivations, and providing accurate feedback. The goal is to create a foundation of success, beginning with sounds they are capable of producing. Jennie delves further into this topic, sharing insightful personal experiences from therapy sessions in this Instagram Live. This approach not only addresses the immediate challenge but also helps build the child's confidence and willingness to engage in the learning process.

Where should I start when wanting to learn more about CAS?

Here is a free YouTube video on our channel for parents and educators.

Check out our courses on BjoremU!

My other favorite places to find information on CAS are:

Want to hear more?

Tune in to this Instagram Live session to gain more insights from Jennie as she addresses these intriguing questions. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to hear her responses to queries raised during the live broadcast, covering vital topics such as target selection, coarticulation, and much more. Don't miss this chance to deepen your understanding and enhance your practice with Jennie's expert guidance!