Cerebral Palsy Speech Therapy: A Practical Guide for Australians

Can someone with cerebral palsy talk?

Yes, many people can, and the amount and clarity of speech differ widely from person to person.

• Cerebral Palsy Alliance reports that among people with cerebral palsy, 1 in 4 are unable to talk.
• Some people speak clearly, some speak with effort or slower speech, and some use other ways to communicate.
• Understanding is a separate skill from speaking, so a person who cannot talk may still understand what is said to them.
• Always ask the person and their family how they prefer to communicate, and allow plenty of time to respond.

Does cerebral palsy affect speech?

It can, because cerebral palsy affects movement and the muscles used for speaking, though effects vary.

• Cerebral Palsy Alliance reports that 1 in 5 people with cerebral palsy has saliva loss.
• It also reports that 1 in 15 needs to be fed through a tube.
• If you wonder why cerebral palsy affects speech, a speech pathologist or paediatrician can explain how it applies to you or your child.
• Tell your speech pathologist about any changes in speech you notice.

Cerebral palsy communication: how people get their message across

Communication covers far more than spoken words, and most people use several methods together.

Cerebral Palsy Alliance also describes the Communication Function Classification System, which looks at how a person communicates in everyday life.

Cerebral palsy communication strategies for families and support workers

Small habits make conversations easier, and they cost nothing.

1. 1Give time to respond. Wait calmly after asking a question, as responding can take longer and rushing adds pressure.
2. 2Reduce background noise. Turn off the television and move to a quiet spot before an important conversation.
3. 3Offer choices. Show two or three options, by words, pictures or objects, so the person can point or signal.
4. 4Check you understood. Repeat back what you heard and ask whether it is right, rather than guessing.
5. 5Speak to the person. Address the person directly, never about them to someone else in the room.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Cerebral palsy speech therapy: speech pathology for cerebral palsy

A speech pathologist looks at how you speak, understand, eat and drink, and plans support around your goals.

• Ask your GP or paediatrician for a referral, or contact a speech pathologist directly.
• Bring recent reports, a list of communication goals and examples of what is hard day to day.
• Ask the speech pathologist to teach family, teachers and support workers the strategies, so practice happens at home.
• Ask whether swallowing or saliva control needs review.
• Review your plan regularly, such as when starting school or work.

For the physical side of therapy, see our guide to physiotherapy and exercises for cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy non verbal: communication devices for cerebral palsy

A person who is non verbal can still have plenty to say, and the right tools make that possible.

• Low-tech options include picture boards, symbol books and alphabet charts that need no power.
• High-tech options include tablets and dedicated devices with speech output, set up with words that matter to the person.
• A speech pathologist can trial different options with you, so you can see what suits before you commit.
• Access methods such as touch, switches or eye gaze can be matched to the person’s movement.
• Keep a low-tech back-up, as batteries run flat and devices can break.

Cerebral palsy and hearing loss: cerebral palsy deaf and hearing questions

Hearing differs from person to person, so it is worth checking rather than assuming.

• Ask your GP for a hearing check if you notice a person is not responding to sound or speech as expected.
• An audiologist tests hearing and can explain what the results mean for communication.
• If a person is deaf or hard of hearing, signs, visual supports and written words can work alongside speech.
• Tell the speech pathologist about any hearing concern, so the plan can fit.

Cerebral palsy speech therapy and the NDIS

If you meet the NDIS access requirements, your plan can be built around your communication goals.

• Ask your speech pathologist what reports or evidence the NDIA may need for planning and review meetings.
• Assistive technology such as speech devices is decided by the NDIA; ask your therapist what evidence is required.
• Our guide to cerebral palsy resources and NDIS support sets out the wider options.
• Support workers can help put strategies into practice at home and in the community.

When to talk to a GP or specialist

Speak up early, as there is no need to wait until a problem feels serious.

• You are concerned about a child’s speech, babbling or understanding and want to know what support exists.
• Speech has become harder to understand, or communication has changed for someone you support.
• Eating, drinking or saliva control is becoming harder or coughing happens during meals.
• You have a hearing concern, or a person does not respond to sound as expected.
• You want a speech or communication device assessed, or a review of your communication plan.

Call 000 in an emergency, including choking that does not clear or difficulty breathing.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Your next step

Speech and communication goals sit best alongside everyday life, and that is where practical support helps. At TQN Care, our support workers help people practise strategies at home, join community activities and keep routines going, working from your plan and your therapists’ advice. Explore our NDIS services, or make a referral and we will call you back to talk about what you need.