Speech Challenges in CP
CP can affect the muscles used for speaking — the lips, tongue, jaw, and vocal cords. This is called dysarthria. Depending on severity:
- Some people speak clearly with minimal difficulty
- Some have speech that is understandable but requires more effort from the listener
- Some are difficult to understand, especially for unfamiliar listeners
- Some are unable to produce speech at all
It is critical to understand that speech ability does not equal intelligence. A person who cannot speak may understand everything and have rich, complex thoughts. They simply need a different way to express them.
Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
AAC is any method of communication that supplements or replaces speech:
- Unaided AAC — gestures, facial expressions, sign language, body language
- Low-tech AAC — picture boards, communication books, alphabet boards, symbol charts. No batteries required.
- High-tech AAC — speech-generating devices (SGDs), tablet apps like Proloquo2Go or TouchChat, and dedicated devices from companies like Tobii Dynavox
- Eye-gaze systems — track eye movements to select symbols, letters, or words on a screen. Transformative for people with very limited motor control
AAC is not a last resort. Research shows that introducing AAC early supports speech development — it does not replace it. Children who use AAC are more likely to develop speech, not less.
The Right to Communicate
Communication is a fundamental human right. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities explicitly protects the right to freedom of expression through all forms of communication.
In practice, this means:
- Every person deserves access to a communication system that works for them
- Communication devices should be available at all times — not locked away or removed
- Listeners have a responsibility to be patient and give people time to communicate
- Assumptions about what someone wants to say should be avoided
- People who use AAC should be included in conversations, decisions, and social situations
Communication Tips
For people communicating with someone who has CP:
- Be patient — give the person time to respond. Don't finish their sentences
- Talk directly to the person — not to their carer or companion
- Ask if you don't understand — it's better to ask than to pretend
- Use yes/no questions when helpful, but don't limit the conversation to them
- Reduce background noise when possible
- Maintain eye contact and show you're listening
- Respect their communication method — whether it's speech, AAC, gestures, or a combination
Communication Technology
Technology has revolutionised communication for people with CP:
- Tablet and phone apps — affordable AAC apps available on mainstream devices
- Eye-tracking devices — enable computer access and communication through eye movement alone
- Switch-based access — single or multiple switches for scanning through options
- AI-powered predictive text — speeds up communication by predicting words and phrases
- Social media and messaging — enables social connection and self-expression for people who may struggle with face-to-face conversation
Everyone has something to say. The right communication tools make it possible for everyone to be heard.