Guidelines and Best Practice in Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Serena Rinaldi, Elena Trifelli
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired planning and programming of speech movements. In the Italian context, the lack of specific recommendations within the Consensus Conference on Primary Language Disorders has led to considerable variability in diagnostic and therapeutic practices. This paper examines the Position Paper on Childhood Apraxia of Speech (2024) issued by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT), which has been officially translated and critically discussed by the special interest group promoted by the Italian Federation of Speech and Language Therapists (FLI). The aim is to integrate international evidence with the linguistic, cultural, and organizational specificities of the Italian context. Key aspects addressed include terminology, differential diagnosis, assessment tools, and evidence-based interventions, including therapy intensity. Particular attention is given to cross-linguistic implications between English and Italian. This work represents an initial step toward the development of shared national best practices.
Keywords
Childhood Apraxia of Speech; Differential diagnosis; Evidence-based practice; Speech therapy.
