Self-Esteem & Apraxia

Speech Therapy is the most effective way of treating Apraxia of Speech. Speech Therapy teaches a child how to properly speak and move the necessary muscles to properly communicate. 

However, Speech Therapy does not teach the art of communicating, the finesse of how to speak confidently, or how to be sociable. Once speech therapy is completed, it simply signifies that a person can articulate properly. Perhaps their lisp or 'accent' has been substantially remedied to the extent it's not even noticeable. Speech therapy is no easy feat. It is hard, expensive, and grueling especially on top of other day-to-day tasks. 

Being able to speak, because of Speech Therapy, establishes confidence, self-esteem, and the capability of presenting oneself. 

But these are simply roots for future, unlimited growth. 

As many of you know, I never graduated from Speech Therapy. I decided to withdraw at the young age of 16 and never looked back. 

At 27 years old, I still have a perpetual 'accent' and, for the life of me, I despise any word ending in '-or.' However, I truly believe I got to where I am today as a college-educated, legal professional (going for her MBA, yay!) because of my confidence and courage to proceed even when I'm terrified. 

I look at opportunities and sometimes they seem impossible; I suppose you could say I still identify as that shy little girl, non-verbal in the corner of her daycare classroom. 

However, I know to always ask myself, "If I didn't have Apraxia, could I do this? Would my friends be able to do this?" Often my answer is always "Duh, yes! Go for it!"

Growing up my parents always invested just as much time in my confidence-building than speech therapy. I used to think it was because I deserved a 'break,' hence why we were such heavy participants in Girl Scouts or Swim Team, etc. But ultimately, each program I participated in was a mere investment into my confidence. Ensuring that even though I may be scared of an obstacle, at least I'd have the courage to pursue it. 

Speech Therapy is important, it is vital obviously in the Apraxia Journey. 

However, investing time and energy into building a child's confidence is just as important and it's often found by having them participate and try new things.