I plan to introduce a resolution designating May 14, 2025, as "Apraxia Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a neurological disorder where children have problems making speech sounds because the brain has difficulty planning the motor and muscle movements needed for speech.  Children with a moderate or milder form struggle with syllables and words.  When CAS is the most severe, children struggle to make sounds. 

Without appropriate speech therapy intervention, children with apraxia will have diminished communication skills, and they are also placed at high risk for secondary impacts in reading, writing, spelling and other school-related skills.  These primary and secondary impacts diminish future independence and employment opportunities and challenge their ability to become productive, contributing citizens if not resolved or improved.

Treatment includes speech therapy and can include sign language and an augmentative communication system.  Research shows the children with CAS have more success when they receive frequent and intensive treatment.

I invite you to join me in co-sponsoring this resolution.