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Hi,

That's a very good question. I just got back from my son's IEP meeting. He

does have retrieval issues. I suspect he is apraxic; his SLT does not feel

he is apraxic. She told me that apraxic children are not able to make the

sounds, but that is not the same as language processing and retrieval. (He

has a diagnosis of expressive and receptive disorder).

Nevertheless, I'm taking him to a dev. ped. in January. I have to follow my

gut instinct. I feel there is something more to the picture.

On 11/29/06, marisanbella <marisanbella@...> wrote:

>

> My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist has

> mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with her.

> She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

>

> Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues? or is

> a seperate issue?

>

> Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like we

> are being sent backwards.

>

>

>

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Share on other sites

Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool apraxic child.

How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child in

the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in preschool

years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm that

your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they were

the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was had

low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a mainstream

kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking about

rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten. What

exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be in

the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made it "

in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's one of

the top students in the class "

My advice is only provide accurate information about your child that

leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that what

they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will assume

the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in most

of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone or

sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But of

course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the school

he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not as

common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your child

is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he or

she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as ignorance

and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this from is

me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I did

and do!

Here's some of his story

http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with apraxia have a

" phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted student. Let us know if your

child is apraxic and doesn't have that unusually strong memory. Also let me

know if you need examples. My theory is that strong unusual memory is due to

having to remember things long enough to express them while others their age

just spit out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you are wrong?

This topic has come up before but here's just one of the archives on

it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -Dawn

perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a topic

you brought up back when.

Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

Hi Kim!

Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since it

doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

problem " is the new buzz or something.

Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they are

visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to symbolize

two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is) or

auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item would

not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie and

just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

planning.

To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor planning

problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

=====

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Share on other sites

This may not be helpful, but I thought I'd add my experience. My son

(ASD dx, no apraxia dx) had significant word retrieval issues for a

couple of years. Those problems went away once we started treating his

borderline hypothyroidism. If you haven't checked, test your child's

TSH, free T3 and free T4 (not T7, total T4, etc). If the TSH is over

2, I would take it to an expert who can help you figure out if your

child would benefit from a low dose of natural thyroid (we use

armour). The upper end of the normal range for TSH is currently 3, but

some people need it to be 2 or less to feel good.

>

> Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

> elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool apraxic

child.

> How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

> when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

> the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child in

> the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

> there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

> other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

> child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

> auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in preschool

> years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm that

> your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

> planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

>

> Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

> average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

> Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

> placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

> and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they were

> the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was had

> low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a mainstream

> kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

> everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking about

> rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten. What

> exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

> mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

> find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be in

> the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made it "

> in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's one of

> the top students in the class "

>

> My advice is only provide accurate information about your child that

> leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

> wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

> negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

> believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

> retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

> someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that what

> they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will assume

> the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

> stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in most

> of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone or

> sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But of

> course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the school

> he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

> have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not as

> common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your child

> is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he or

> she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as ignorance

> and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this from is

> me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

> perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I did

> and do!

> Here's some of his story

> http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

>

> And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with

apraxia have a " phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted

student. Let us know if your child is apraxic and doesn't have that

unusually strong memory. Also let me know if you need examples. My

theory is that strong unusual memory is due to having to remember

things long enough to express them while others their age just spit

out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you are

wrong?

>

> This topic has come up before but here's just one of the archives on

> it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -Dawn

> perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a topic

> you brought up back when.

>

>

> Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

>

>

> Hi Kim!

>

> Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since it

> doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

> problem " is the new buzz or something.

>

> Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they are

> visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to symbolize

> two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is) or

> auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

> strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

>

> If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item would

> not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie and

> just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

> that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

> saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

> and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

> not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

> visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

> planning.

>

> To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor planning

> problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

>

> =====

>

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Share on other sites

Thanks for your insight. My dd does have an unbelievable memory. I

do not believe she is regressing but I just do not want another

issue with her. She already has Epilepsy(on meds),Apraxia, and

incoordination(ex. still can not pedal a trike) . All dx by her

neuro. I don't mean to sound negative in any way. My dd is a

beautiful intelligent little girl, that puts a smile on everyones

face. I will fight for my child to stay mainstream we would not

have it any other way.

> >

> > Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

> > elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool

apraxic

> child.

> > How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval

problems

> > when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> > believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit

of

> > the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> > world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> > doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your

child in

> > the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he

belongs

> > there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just

the

> > other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her

preschool

> > child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for

central

> > auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> > neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> > apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in

preschool

> > years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> > kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm

that

> > your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> > CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a

motor

> > planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> > upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

> >

> > Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

> > average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

> > Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

> > placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

> > and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they

were

> > the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was

had

> > low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a

mainstream

> > kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

> > everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking

about

> > rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten.

What

> > exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

> > mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

> > find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be

in

> > the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made

it "

> > in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's

one of

> > the top students in the class "

> >

> > My advice is only provide accurate information about your child

that

> > leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

> > wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

> > negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

> > believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

> > retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

> > someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that

what

> > they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will

assume

> > the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

> > stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in

most

> > of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone

or

> > sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But

of

> > course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the

school

> > he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

> > have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not

as

> > common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your

child

> > is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he

or

> > she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as

ignorance

> > and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this

from is

> > me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

> > perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I

did

> > and do!

> > Here's some of his story

> > http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

> >

> > And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with

> apraxia have a " phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted

> student. Let us know if your child is apraxic and doesn't have

that

> unusually strong memory. Also let me know if you need examples.

My

> theory is that strong unusual memory is due to having to remember

> things long enough to express them while others their age just spit

> out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

> has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you

are

> wrong?

> >

> > This topic has come up before but here's just one of the

archives on

> > it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -

Dawn

> > perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a

topic

> > you brought up back when.

> >

> >

> > Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

> >

> >

> > Hi Kim!

> >

> > Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since

it

> > doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

> > problem " is the new buzz or something.

> >

> > Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they

are

> > visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to

symbolize

> > two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is)

or

> > auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

> > strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

> >

> > If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item

would

> > not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie

and

> > just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

> > that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

> > saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

> > and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

> > not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

> > visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

> > planning.

> >

> > To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor

planning

> > problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

> >

> > =====

> >

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Share on other sites

Hi,

That's a very good question. I just got back from my son's IEP meeting. He

does have retrieval issues. I suspect he is apraxic; his SLT does not feel

he is apraxic. She told me that apraxic children are not able to make the

sounds, but that is not the same as language processing and retrieval. (He

has a diagnosis of expressive and receptive disorder).

Nevertheless, I'm taking him to a dev. ped. in January. I have to follow my

gut instinct. I feel there is something more to the picture.

On 11/29/06, marisanbella <marisanbella@...> wrote:

>

> My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist has

> mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with her.

> She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

>

> Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues? or is

> a seperate issue?

>

> Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like we

> are being sent backwards.

>

>

>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool apraxic child.

How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child in

the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in preschool

years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm that

your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they were

the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was had

low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a mainstream

kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking about

rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten. What

exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be in

the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made it "

in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's one of

the top students in the class "

My advice is only provide accurate information about your child that

leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that what

they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will assume

the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in most

of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone or

sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But of

course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the school

he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not as

common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your child

is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he or

she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as ignorance

and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this from is

me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I did

and do!

Here's some of his story

http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with apraxia have a

" phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted student. Let us know if your

child is apraxic and doesn't have that unusually strong memory. Also let me

know if you need examples. My theory is that strong unusual memory is due to

having to remember things long enough to express them while others their age

just spit out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you are wrong?

This topic has come up before but here's just one of the archives on

it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -Dawn

perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a topic

you brought up back when.

Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

Hi Kim!

Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since it

doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

problem " is the new buzz or something.

Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they are

visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to symbolize

two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is) or

auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item would

not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie and

just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

planning.

To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor planning

problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

=====

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This may not be helpful, but I thought I'd add my experience. My son

(ASD dx, no apraxia dx) had significant word retrieval issues for a

couple of years. Those problems went away once we started treating his

borderline hypothyroidism. If you haven't checked, test your child's

TSH, free T3 and free T4 (not T7, total T4, etc). If the TSH is over

2, I would take it to an expert who can help you figure out if your

child would benefit from a low dose of natural thyroid (we use

armour). The upper end of the normal range for TSH is currently 3, but

some people need it to be 2 or less to feel good.

>

> Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

> elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool apraxic

child.

> How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

> when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

> the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child in

> the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

> there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

> other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

> child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

> auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in preschool

> years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm that

> your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

> planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

>

> Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

> average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

> Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

> placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

> and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they were

> the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was had

> low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a mainstream

> kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

> everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking about

> rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten. What

> exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

> mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

> find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be in

> the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made it "

> in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's one of

> the top students in the class "

>

> My advice is only provide accurate information about your child that

> leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

> wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

> negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

> believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

> retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

> someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that what

> they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will assume

> the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

> stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in most

> of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone or

> sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But of

> course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the school

> he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

> have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not as

> common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your child

> is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he or

> she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as ignorance

> and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this from is

> me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

> perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I did

> and do!

> Here's some of his story

> http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

>

> And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with

apraxia have a " phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted

student. Let us know if your child is apraxic and doesn't have that

unusually strong memory. Also let me know if you need examples. My

theory is that strong unusual memory is due to having to remember

things long enough to express them while others their age just spit

out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you are

wrong?

>

> This topic has come up before but here's just one of the archives on

> it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -Dawn

> perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a topic

> you brought up back when.

>

>

> Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

>

>

> Hi Kim!

>

> Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since it

> doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

> problem " is the new buzz or something.

>

> Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they are

> visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to symbolize

> two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is) or

> auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

> strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

>

> If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item would

> not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie and

> just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

> that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

> saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

> and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

> not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

> visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

> planning.

>

> To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor planning

> problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

>

> =====

>

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Thanks for your insight. My dd does have an unbelievable memory. I

do not believe she is regressing but I just do not want another

issue with her. She already has Epilepsy(on meds),Apraxia, and

incoordination(ex. still can not pedal a trike) . All dx by her

neuro. I don't mean to sound negative in any way. My dd is a

beautiful intelligent little girl, that puts a smile on everyones

face. I will fight for my child to stay mainstream we would not

have it any other way.

> >

> > Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of your

> > elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool

apraxic

> child.

> > How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval

problems

> > when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> > believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit

of

> > the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> > world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> > doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your

child in

> > the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he

belongs

> > there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just

the

> > other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her

preschool

> > child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for

central

> > auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> > neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> > apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in

preschool

> > years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> > kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm

that

> > your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> > CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a

motor

> > planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> > upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

> >

> > Back when Tanner was preschool age he was tested average to above

> > average in abilities prior to starting kindergarten by the Summit

> > Speech School where he was schooled in out of district preschool

> > placement. He was tested the same by private exams from neuroMDs

> > and SLPs. Yet the public school when they tested him (if they

were

> > the only ones that tested him for example) found that Tanner was

had

> > low average abilities at best and " wouldn't make it " in a

mainstream

> > kindergarten class. Needless to say, once again, I don't believe

> > everything I hear and questioned at the IEP " We aren't talking

about

> > rocket science class here, we are talking about kindergarten.

What

> > exactly is it that you think Tanner is not capable of doing in a

> > mainstream kindergarten class? Finger-painting?! " And as you'll

> > find in the archives my husband and I advocated for Tanner to be

in

> > the mainstream where the rest is history. Tanner not only " made

it "

> > in the mainstream -but as his kindergarten teacher said " he's

one of

> > the top students in the class "

> >

> > My advice is only provide accurate information about your child

that

> > leans toward the positive. If you are wrong it's because you are

> > wrong -and not that you as a parent helped create your child's

> > negative reality by providing false information. And if anyone

> > believes that their preschool child with apraxia has CAPD or word

> > retrieval problems -don't believe me...get a second opinion from

> > someone who has a clue. For the sake of your child. Know that

what

> > they are dealing with is not understood by most -so most will

assume

> > the worst. And you know what -apraxia is not much different then

> > stuttering down the road. It is a speech impairment...but in

most

> > of our kids today -with a few other little issues like low tone

or

> > sensory issues. Not cognitive or social or receptive ones. But

of

> > course treat a kid like he is learning disabled and tell the

school

> > he is and you may help create that reality. Then again you can

> > have a child with mental retardation and apraxia -but that's not

as

> > common. So if you are going to assume anything -assume your

child

> > is smart. Really really smart. He or she has to be because he

or

> > she has a motor planning disorder to overcome -as well as

ignorance

> > and prejudice. And right now the only one you will hear this

from is

> > me. But if you change your belief and believe in your child -

> > perhaps you'll hear it from your child down the road. I know I

did

> > and do!

> > Here's some of his story

> > http://www.cherab.org/information/familiesrelate/letter.html

> >

> > And in addition to " really really smart " know that most with

> apraxia have a " phenomenal memory " which is one sign of a gifted

> student. Let us know if your child is apraxic and doesn't have

that

> unusually strong memory. Also let me know if you need examples.

My

> theory is that strong unusual memory is due to having to remember

> things long enough to express them while others their age just spit

> out whatever comes to mind....and there you were -thinking that kid

> has " word retrieval issues " Who's right? Who do you hurt if you

are

> wrong?

> >

> > This topic has come up before but here's just one of the

archives on

> > it. Kim any updates on your message below? If not or even if -

Dawn

> > perhaps you can comment on Abby's update too since this was a

topic

> > you brought up back when.

> >

> >

> > Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

> >

> >

> > Hi Kim!

> >

> > Some professionals still must just hate to say " apraxia " (since

it

> > doesn't exist in children right?) and perhaps " word retrieval

> > problem " is the new buzz or something.

> >

> > Seeing the actual item is a " visual cue " and cues whether they

are

> > visual ones such as that or bringing two items together to

symbolize

> > two syllables or two words, touch cues (such as what Prompt is)

or

> > auditory cues such as in clapping out the syllables/words are all

> > strong therapy methods to help with " motor planning problems " .

> >

> > If it was purely word retrieval seeing or not seeing the item

would

> > not make a difference. Have any of you seen an actor in a movie

and

> > just can't recall the name of that actor? You see the actor, hear

> > that actor's voice, feel your friend's finger tapping your arm

> > saying " who is that actor again? " You both know you know his name

> > and yet you and your friend can't recall it. Now that's probably

> > not word retrieval either -probably that's memory -but clearly

> > visual cues don't always help there. Cues always help with motor

> > planning.

> >

> > To me it's another " obvious " answer -it's clearly a motor

planning

> > problem. I could be wrong -but doubt it on this one.

> >

> > =====

> >

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I don't know if your son has symptoms of hypothyroidism or not. I

would look at his growth patterns, constipation issues if any,

lethargy, fatigue,etc (go to the thyroid.about.com webpage for a list

of symptoms). You could check his basal body temp every morning for a

week before he gets out of bed and see if it is low on average (google

" Broda thyroid " for more information on body temp and thyroid).

I've never seen word retrieval issues listed as a symptom of

hypothyroidism, but I have also noticed that " tip of my tongue " ,

searching for words, feeling myself when my own thyroid hormone levels

are off.

Your son's test results don't point to a thyroid problem. His TSH is

below 2, and his total T4 is right in the middle of the normal range.

If you suspect thyroid problems, I would ask his doc to test his free

T3 and free T4. Those are better indications of thyroid status than

total T4. TSH is a screening test. Oddly enough I've seen my TSH and

my son's TSH vary quite a bit on tests that were only a couple of

months apart (done by the same lab - CPL), so I don't know if the

testing is inaccurate or if it really can just vary significantly over

a short time. The TSH comes from the pituitary gland, so it

essentially tells you how much thyroid hormone the pituitary gland is

urging the thyroid to produce. It isn't a substitute for knowing free

T3 and free T4, the thyroid hormones, if your child has symptoms of

hypothyroidism. It's important to check free T3, not just T4, since

some people have trouble converting T4 into T3 (T3 is the active

hormone).

The about.com thyroid webpage is a great source of information.

good luck

> >

> > This may not be helpful, but I thought I'd add my experience. My son

> > (ASD dx, no apraxia dx) had significant word retrieval issues for a

> > couple of years. Those problems went away once we started treating his

> > borderline hypothyroidism. If you haven't checked, test your child's

> > TSH, free T3 and free T4 (not T7, total T4, etc). If the TSH is over

> > 2, I would take it to an expert who can help you figure out if your

> > child would benefit from a low dose of natural thyroid (we use

> > armour). The upper end of the normal range for TSH is currently 3, but

> > some people need it to be 2 or less to feel good.

> >

> >

>

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I don't know if your son has symptoms of hypothyroidism or not. I

would look at his growth patterns, constipation issues if any,

lethargy, fatigue,etc (go to the thyroid.about.com webpage for a list

of symptoms). You could check his basal body temp every morning for a

week before he gets out of bed and see if it is low on average (google

" Broda thyroid " for more information on body temp and thyroid).

I've never seen word retrieval issues listed as a symptom of

hypothyroidism, but I have also noticed that " tip of my tongue " ,

searching for words, feeling myself when my own thyroid hormone levels

are off.

Your son's test results don't point to a thyroid problem. His TSH is

below 2, and his total T4 is right in the middle of the normal range.

If you suspect thyroid problems, I would ask his doc to test his free

T3 and free T4. Those are better indications of thyroid status than

total T4. TSH is a screening test. Oddly enough I've seen my TSH and

my son's TSH vary quite a bit on tests that were only a couple of

months apart (done by the same lab - CPL), so I don't know if the

testing is inaccurate or if it really can just vary significantly over

a short time. The TSH comes from the pituitary gland, so it

essentially tells you how much thyroid hormone the pituitary gland is

urging the thyroid to produce. It isn't a substitute for knowing free

T3 and free T4, the thyroid hormones, if your child has symptoms of

hypothyroidism. It's important to check free T3, not just T4, since

some people have trouble converting T4 into T3 (T3 is the active

hormone).

The about.com thyroid webpage is a great source of information.

good luck

> >

> > This may not be helpful, but I thought I'd add my experience. My son

> > (ASD dx, no apraxia dx) had significant word retrieval issues for a

> > couple of years. Those problems went away once we started treating his

> > borderline hypothyroidism. If you haven't checked, test your child's

> > TSH, free T3 and free T4 (not T7, total T4, etc). If the TSH is over

> > 2, I would take it to an expert who can help you figure out if your

> > child would benefit from a low dose of natural thyroid (we use

> > armour). The upper end of the normal range for TSH is currently 3, but

> > some people need it to be 2 or less to feel good.

> >

> >

>

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, obviously I'm not . But I wanted to reply my thought(s).

Hopefully I'm accurate as to what was trying to convey.

Simply put, why open up another can of worms for our kids by adding

another dx to the mix. Our children have enough on their plates, and

so do we.

If you look at the typical developing child, I bet you will

find " word retrival issues " at some point. However those parents do

not run to the audiologist, or neuro-dev thinking there(might) be

something wrong. I've asked myself why. It occured to me that we

(probably as a group) have been so concerned about our children, so

worried, that every little thing our kids do or dont do we are going

to dissect.

My now 5 1/2 yo Abby who is apraxic, had what originally thought to

be " word retrieval " I brought that up here, probably about a year

ago, (which by the way, is the same time that her language was on the

verge of exploding) anyway, it was reminded to me then, that apraxia

is motor planning disorder (duhhh to me)LOL.

I still see her " groping " for a word now and then. Just the other

day, Abby was trying to tell my husband and I a story about what she

did in school. We watched her start and then stop several times, and

open her mouth (grop). Then repeat. It took her several attempts. BUT

she did it. And I know that was a pure apraxic moment for her. NOT

word retrieval one.

I once thought Abby might have CAPD-- because she confused a lot of

her words- for example she signed (when she used to use her sign

language) ball, but then pointed to a bowl- heard me say gas for the

car, but signed the word grass. Siged Fireplace, but showed me the

baby dolls pacifire. I did ask my SLP, and my audiologist about CAPD.

I was told CAPD can be comorbid with any neurological disorders, such

as ADD/ADHD, and including apraxia. HOWEVER, a child under 7 shoud

not be tested, or " labeled " CAPD by anyone. First of all the testing

is intense. Secondly, their auditory system has not reached full

maturation. They would fail even IF they could endure the testing.

However, parents and educators cAN help our children while their

systems are maturing. But that is for another post.

In the mean time, I think its best for our kids, and us too, to keep

it simple, keep it all apraxia.

Dawn in NJ

> >

> > Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of

your

> > elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool

apraxic child.

> > How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

> > when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> > believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

> > the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> > world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> > doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child

in

> > the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

> > there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

> > other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

> > child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

> > auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> > neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> > apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in

preschool

> > years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> > kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm

that

> > your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> > CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

> > planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> > upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

>

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I sometimes talk too much and don't keep it simple enough. Tina's

message below is just one of many examples of what I was trying to

say.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~start of recent archive:

A small update thought I would share

" ribbon1232000 " walkercolumbus@...

Wed Nov 29, 2006 9:56 pm

I was just catching up on the emails and thought I would share part

of my son's story. My son was diagnosed with global apraxia. When he

was little the school assumed he was slow and labeled him as MR

which explained why he had difficulties so they said. It had nothing

to do with the apraxia. Well I was told I was in denial and he

wouldn't get very far my son's and our expectations were to high for

him so they said. And of course the IQ testing was pretty low I

refused to believe them. I knew in my heart that they were wrong.

They wanted him to be in a special class I refused. I demanded

mainstream placement in a regular class . I even purchased his

computer programs and got a laptop plus the help of his slp who also

was a reading specialist and his ot and a private tutor to help

write an approperate iep. I truly believed in my son and knew with

approperate accomodations and teaching he would succeed. The school

didn't have much faith and thought I was wasting my money to the

teachers and schools amazement he began to catch up and was soaring

and reaching for the stars.I finally got that label removed. But it

was a lot of hard work to catch up he was determined and won.

Some even commented that they were glad I didn't give up and fought

them all the way. And he taught them a very good lesson they won't

soon forget. Well my son is now 15 and in grade 9 when I first met

his teacher this Sept they had concerns like isn't this course going

to be to hard for him. Do you want him to struggle ect .Well at the

first mid term report the teachers were surprised he did very well.

His first term report card was great to with a 75% overall average

just 5% from the honor roll.I am a very proud mom. Just thought I

would share sometimes the schools are so quick to label and place

them in a nice neat box that can have a negative impact with out

seeing the child and there true potentical. Stay positive and see

what they can do not just what they can't. Sorry long and now I am

rambling Tina C

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~end of archive

And if that didn't make it clear ....Give your child the benefit of

the doubt even if you are the only one that does...and then if they

fail at least you know you provided them the best chance to

succeed. One day your child may thank you for always believing in

them. I know Khalid, 's son who is now a successful college

student after like Tina her parents had to fight to keep him in the

mainstream because they too didn't believe he " belonged " there has

thanked his parents. I don't care who diagnoses a preschool apraxic

child with " word retrieval " or " severe receptive delays "

or " CAPD " ...seek out of district second, third, opinions to prove

it wrong....many times it is because most are clueless about what

apraxia is...and that includes new to the diagnosis parents.

Hope that I'm clear now. :o)

=====

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Thanks Dawn!!! You know I believe in Abby too -can't wait to see

you guys again for some more " ride therapy " at Disney. And to think

it was less then 6 months ago we had the following conversation

prior to meeting:

" kiddietalk " kiddietalk@...

Fri Jun 9, 2006 1:58 pm

Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

Hi again Dawn!

Regression depends on a number of factors. The child's age,

diagnosis, severity of that/those diagnosis, how long on the fish

oils, how long off the fish oils... for just a few factors.

I too once put Tanner's regression off the oils as devastating -you

can read about that in The LCP Solution book or online here

http://www.drstordy.com/stories.html (under apraxia) Zimet

CCC SLP from this group who is now working for Georgia EI, was

Tanner's EI therapist in NJ at the time and was the one that

witnessed it first hand.

But...Tanner's been on EFAs and in appropriate therapy for years

(he's 9 now)

His regression is still noticeable off the oils -but no longer is it

devastating. Clearly he would no longer go back to being completely

nonverbal like before. And...at some point I'm convinced that the

regression won't be apparent to just about anyone at all. In fact

there are members here now who have children that used to regress -

but no longer do. Perhaps the EFAs got them to where they needed to

be -and they are no longer needed for that aspect.

But for my boys it's not an option. Speech and ADHD are not even

close to the main reasons that most take EFAs. You see for

us...heart disease runs heavy in both my side and Glenn's side of

the family -both Glenn and I lost our Dad's when they were in their

50s which is sad. Our boys never got to meet their " Grandpa " on

either side. And even more so for my boys because (wasn't going to

say anything but) my just turned 46 year old athletic, strong and in

great shape husband Glenn just had a sudden unexpected heart attack

a few weeks ago. Thankfully he was on EFAs at the time (clinical

research shows a 70% decrease in fatal heart attacks even in those

who do have a heart attack while on EFAs) Also Glenn, is not only

alive and well (thank God!) but as if that wasn't enough, the

cardiologist actually said that my husband's heart is in very good

shape outside of this one artery. We'll be going for a second

opinion with Glenn and are probably switching his formula of EFAs to

something called ultaEPA or something that Nordic Naturals tells me

is a big one for heart health. I'm going to let the boys try that

with their ProEFA too vs. the regular ProEPA. (starting tomorrow -

let you guys know what I see if anything that's different)

My boys know now more than ever before that no matter what... to be

on and stay on EFAs the rest of their life -and both take fish oils

on their own every day. (they both today at 9 and 11 know how to

swallow capsules)

For me for years and years I now I don't have to prove to anyone

else that the fish oils make a difference in apraxia. ADHD,

learning, memory etc. For at least a few years I don't try to cut

back on EFAs to see if I can stop them either like I used to. For

me it's obvious that they are healthy for us as humans -and not

getting a supply of them, EFAs, daily to me would be just as silly

as seeing how long my children can go without water without showing

signs of dehydration. Yep -that's how much I'm into them.

(and...not to mention that I believe that this group's kids have an

edge on the typical children in the schools today because of the

EFAs we are giving them for other reasons)

=====

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To answer the question regarding whether anyone has a child with

apraxia who presents with word retrieval issues, here's my post from

October 7th 2005 (notice that's over a year ago!)

" My son, now 4yrs, 5 months has a new SLP who says she

believes that Nick has a " severe word retrieval problem " . She is

talking about it like it is apart from the apraxia. I'm not clear

if it is two different issues or another facet to the apraxia.

Anyway, what ever the underlying cause, we still have this problem

to address. Does anyone have any activities, strategies, war

stories, experiences to share? I'm feeling as though someone has

placed yet another horrible hurdle in front of my child and of course

I'm researching to try to take some of the sting out of it. Hey, I

can read-read-read or cry-cry-cry, right?

On another note, Nick's at one Pro-EFA cap a day given every time I

try to up him to more I get behavior that I'd rather not deal with.

Suggestions on where to go from there would be appreciated, as he

has stalled, and actually regressed a bit on sounds. He is speaking

more though and I think that's why the sounds are slipping. That

and the month + that he was without a therapist as we called the

E.I. people every day and all the SLP's in the area trying to get

him therapy.

I'm trying hard not to feel kicked in the gut when I read of many of

the children in this group with super memories. I'm hoping that

even given those that there are some out there that have been there,

done that with the retrieval problems or even someone going through

it now that I can commiserate with.

Thanks,

McCann "

I had only two responses to that post and those were from people who

had children display what they or their SLP's considered to be word

retrieval issues. One of those responses listed this helpful link:

http://www.speech-language-therapy.com/wordretrieval.html and I

quote from this article; " It is common for children with specific

language impairments and developmental apraxia of speech to have

word finding difficulties. "

I might add that my Nick continues to have what appears to be

severe " word finding difficulties " to this day. Have I or someone

else been able to tell if it is motor planning or a true " retrieval "

problem? No. Does it matter what's causing it or what we call it?

Not in my mind. It matters that my son has a communication

impairment that needs therapy, bottom line.

I'm guess I am pleased to see this number of posts in response to

this mom's post because a year ago there were only two responses to

my plea; BUT I have to add I'm also concerned that some of these

responses may have made a mom calling for help feel as though she

was doing or saying something wrong.

So I apologize for being long winded and I'll say what really

matters: Take heart! No matter what they call any of it and no

matter what happens, your child has you; a loving, caring mother to

advocate for her and no matter what her struggles, please keep this

as a mantra: she will be wonderfully okay, she WILL be wonderfully

okay!

All the best,

McCann

>

> My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist

has

> mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with her.

> She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

>

> Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues? or

is

> a seperate issue?

>

> Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like we

> are being sent backwards.

>

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, obviously I'm not . But I wanted to reply my thought(s).

Hopefully I'm accurate as to what was trying to convey.

Simply put, why open up another can of worms for our kids by adding

another dx to the mix. Our children have enough on their plates, and

so do we.

If you look at the typical developing child, I bet you will

find " word retrival issues " at some point. However those parents do

not run to the audiologist, or neuro-dev thinking there(might) be

something wrong. I've asked myself why. It occured to me that we

(probably as a group) have been so concerned about our children, so

worried, that every little thing our kids do or dont do we are going

to dissect.

My now 5 1/2 yo Abby who is apraxic, had what originally thought to

be " word retrieval " I brought that up here, probably about a year

ago, (which by the way, is the same time that her language was on the

verge of exploding) anyway, it was reminded to me then, that apraxia

is motor planning disorder (duhhh to me)LOL.

I still see her " groping " for a word now and then. Just the other

day, Abby was trying to tell my husband and I a story about what she

did in school. We watched her start and then stop several times, and

open her mouth (grop). Then repeat. It took her several attempts. BUT

she did it. And I know that was a pure apraxic moment for her. NOT

word retrieval one.

I once thought Abby might have CAPD-- because she confused a lot of

her words- for example she signed (when she used to use her sign

language) ball, but then pointed to a bowl- heard me say gas for the

car, but signed the word grass. Siged Fireplace, but showed me the

baby dolls pacifire. I did ask my SLP, and my audiologist about CAPD.

I was told CAPD can be comorbid with any neurological disorders, such

as ADD/ADHD, and including apraxia. HOWEVER, a child under 7 shoud

not be tested, or " labeled " CAPD by anyone. First of all the testing

is intense. Secondly, their auditory system has not reached full

maturation. They would fail even IF they could endure the testing.

However, parents and educators cAN help our children while their

systems are maturing. But that is for another post.

In the mean time, I think its best for our kids, and us too, to keep

it simple, keep it all apraxia.

Dawn in NJ

> >

> > Be careful you don't fall into the trap of over diagnosis of

your

> > elementary school age or God forbid even younger preschool

apraxic child.

> > How can anyone assume an apraxic child has word retrieval problems

> > when it could instead be motor planning problems? As a parent I

> > believe that we are the best at giving our children the benefit of

> > the doubt because you just may be the only one in the whole wide

> > world that does. And guess what -your belief and benefit of the

> > doubt and advocacy may be the saving grace that keeps your child

in

> > the mainstream long enough for him or her to prove that he belongs

> > there. Even long enough for him to rise above the norm. Just the

> > other day I spoke to a parent in Florida who told me her preschool

> > child was diagnosed with apraxia and CAPD (that stands for central

> > auditory processing disorder) The child had never been to a

> > neurologist or developmental pediatrician either. Even without

> > apraxia CAPD is not a diagnosis that can be definitive in

preschool

> > years -but why set this poor kid up even before he's in

> > kindergarten? See now while some of you wonder or even confirm

that

> > your child has " word retrieval problems " this mom was told it was

> > CAPD. But all of these children are dealing with apraxia -a motor

> > planning disorder that makes it difficult to do or say (depending

> > upon what the apraxia affects) things on command.

>

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I sometimes talk too much and don't keep it simple enough. Tina's

message below is just one of many examples of what I was trying to

say.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~start of recent archive:

A small update thought I would share

" ribbon1232000 " walkercolumbus@...

Wed Nov 29, 2006 9:56 pm

I was just catching up on the emails and thought I would share part

of my son's story. My son was diagnosed with global apraxia. When he

was little the school assumed he was slow and labeled him as MR

which explained why he had difficulties so they said. It had nothing

to do with the apraxia. Well I was told I was in denial and he

wouldn't get very far my son's and our expectations were to high for

him so they said. And of course the IQ testing was pretty low I

refused to believe them. I knew in my heart that they were wrong.

They wanted him to be in a special class I refused. I demanded

mainstream placement in a regular class . I even purchased his

computer programs and got a laptop plus the help of his slp who also

was a reading specialist and his ot and a private tutor to help

write an approperate iep. I truly believed in my son and knew with

approperate accomodations and teaching he would succeed. The school

didn't have much faith and thought I was wasting my money to the

teachers and schools amazement he began to catch up and was soaring

and reaching for the stars.I finally got that label removed. But it

was a lot of hard work to catch up he was determined and won.

Some even commented that they were glad I didn't give up and fought

them all the way. And he taught them a very good lesson they won't

soon forget. Well my son is now 15 and in grade 9 when I first met

his teacher this Sept they had concerns like isn't this course going

to be to hard for him. Do you want him to struggle ect .Well at the

first mid term report the teachers were surprised he did very well.

His first term report card was great to with a 75% overall average

just 5% from the honor roll.I am a very proud mom. Just thought I

would share sometimes the schools are so quick to label and place

them in a nice neat box that can have a negative impact with out

seeing the child and there true potentical. Stay positive and see

what they can do not just what they can't. Sorry long and now I am

rambling Tina C

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~end of archive

And if that didn't make it clear ....Give your child the benefit of

the doubt even if you are the only one that does...and then if they

fail at least you know you provided them the best chance to

succeed. One day your child may thank you for always believing in

them. I know Khalid, 's son who is now a successful college

student after like Tina her parents had to fight to keep him in the

mainstream because they too didn't believe he " belonged " there has

thanked his parents. I don't care who diagnoses a preschool apraxic

child with " word retrieval " or " severe receptive delays "

or " CAPD " ...seek out of district second, third, opinions to prove

it wrong....many times it is because most are clueless about what

apraxia is...and that includes new to the diagnosis parents.

Hope that I'm clear now. :o)

=====

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Thanks Dawn!!! You know I believe in Abby too -can't wait to see

you guys again for some more " ride therapy " at Disney. And to think

it was less then 6 months ago we had the following conversation

prior to meeting:

" kiddietalk " kiddietalk@...

Fri Jun 9, 2006 1:58 pm

Re: Is word retrieval problems a form of regression?

Hi again Dawn!

Regression depends on a number of factors. The child's age,

diagnosis, severity of that/those diagnosis, how long on the fish

oils, how long off the fish oils... for just a few factors.

I too once put Tanner's regression off the oils as devastating -you

can read about that in The LCP Solution book or online here

http://www.drstordy.com/stories.html (under apraxia) Zimet

CCC SLP from this group who is now working for Georgia EI, was

Tanner's EI therapist in NJ at the time and was the one that

witnessed it first hand.

But...Tanner's been on EFAs and in appropriate therapy for years

(he's 9 now)

His regression is still noticeable off the oils -but no longer is it

devastating. Clearly he would no longer go back to being completely

nonverbal like before. And...at some point I'm convinced that the

regression won't be apparent to just about anyone at all. In fact

there are members here now who have children that used to regress -

but no longer do. Perhaps the EFAs got them to where they needed to

be -and they are no longer needed for that aspect.

But for my boys it's not an option. Speech and ADHD are not even

close to the main reasons that most take EFAs. You see for

us...heart disease runs heavy in both my side and Glenn's side of

the family -both Glenn and I lost our Dad's when they were in their

50s which is sad. Our boys never got to meet their " Grandpa " on

either side. And even more so for my boys because (wasn't going to

say anything but) my just turned 46 year old athletic, strong and in

great shape husband Glenn just had a sudden unexpected heart attack

a few weeks ago. Thankfully he was on EFAs at the time (clinical

research shows a 70% decrease in fatal heart attacks even in those

who do have a heart attack while on EFAs) Also Glenn, is not only

alive and well (thank God!) but as if that wasn't enough, the

cardiologist actually said that my husband's heart is in very good

shape outside of this one artery. We'll be going for a second

opinion with Glenn and are probably switching his formula of EFAs to

something called ultaEPA or something that Nordic Naturals tells me

is a big one for heart health. I'm going to let the boys try that

with their ProEFA too vs. the regular ProEPA. (starting tomorrow -

let you guys know what I see if anything that's different)

My boys know now more than ever before that no matter what... to be

on and stay on EFAs the rest of their life -and both take fish oils

on their own every day. (they both today at 9 and 11 know how to

swallow capsules)

For me for years and years I now I don't have to prove to anyone

else that the fish oils make a difference in apraxia. ADHD,

learning, memory etc. For at least a few years I don't try to cut

back on EFAs to see if I can stop them either like I used to. For

me it's obvious that they are healthy for us as humans -and not

getting a supply of them, EFAs, daily to me would be just as silly

as seeing how long my children can go without water without showing

signs of dehydration. Yep -that's how much I'm into them.

(and...not to mention that I believe that this group's kids have an

edge on the typical children in the schools today because of the

EFAs we are giving them for other reasons)

=====

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To answer the question regarding whether anyone has a child with

apraxia who presents with word retrieval issues, here's my post from

October 7th 2005 (notice that's over a year ago!)

" My son, now 4yrs, 5 months has a new SLP who says she

believes that Nick has a " severe word retrieval problem " . She is

talking about it like it is apart from the apraxia. I'm not clear

if it is two different issues or another facet to the apraxia.

Anyway, what ever the underlying cause, we still have this problem

to address. Does anyone have any activities, strategies, war

stories, experiences to share? I'm feeling as though someone has

placed yet another horrible hurdle in front of my child and of course

I'm researching to try to take some of the sting out of it. Hey, I

can read-read-read or cry-cry-cry, right?

On another note, Nick's at one Pro-EFA cap a day given every time I

try to up him to more I get behavior that I'd rather not deal with.

Suggestions on where to go from there would be appreciated, as he

has stalled, and actually regressed a bit on sounds. He is speaking

more though and I think that's why the sounds are slipping. That

and the month + that he was without a therapist as we called the

E.I. people every day and all the SLP's in the area trying to get

him therapy.

I'm trying hard not to feel kicked in the gut when I read of many of

the children in this group with super memories. I'm hoping that

even given those that there are some out there that have been there,

done that with the retrieval problems or even someone going through

it now that I can commiserate with.

Thanks,

McCann "

I had only two responses to that post and those were from people who

had children display what they or their SLP's considered to be word

retrieval issues. One of those responses listed this helpful link:

http://www.speech-language-therapy.com/wordretrieval.html and I

quote from this article; " It is common for children with specific

language impairments and developmental apraxia of speech to have

word finding difficulties. "

I might add that my Nick continues to have what appears to be

severe " word finding difficulties " to this day. Have I or someone

else been able to tell if it is motor planning or a true " retrieval "

problem? No. Does it matter what's causing it or what we call it?

Not in my mind. It matters that my son has a communication

impairment that needs therapy, bottom line.

I'm guess I am pleased to see this number of posts in response to

this mom's post because a year ago there were only two responses to

my plea; BUT I have to add I'm also concerned that some of these

responses may have made a mom calling for help feel as though she

was doing or saying something wrong.

So I apologize for being long winded and I'll say what really

matters: Take heart! No matter what they call any of it and no

matter what happens, your child has you; a loving, caring mother to

advocate for her and no matter what her struggles, please keep this

as a mantra: she will be wonderfully okay, she WILL be wonderfully

okay!

All the best,

McCann

>

> My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist

has

> mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with her.

> She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

>

> Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues? or

is

> a seperate issue?

>

> Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like we

> are being sent backwards.

>

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,

motor planning is not limited to what the brain is planning to carry

out.. but the transmission from the brain to the mouth. Or brain to

limb (Limb apraxia) Or brain to eye (Ocular apraxia) etc...

Have you ever seen your child open his/her mouth to say something,

but nothing comes out. It's actually a horrible sight to see. Abby

has done this many many times. Her brain knows exactly what she wants

to say. The problem is her mouth doesnt know how to get it out.

Cannot (motor) plan and execute it. Somewhere between the brain and

the mouth, something gets lost in transmission.

Im not an expert on word retrieval. I didn't spend endless nights up

on the pc reading about it, lol. But I think thats just a mater of

the child knowing the word, knowing how to say it, knowing the motor

planning of the tongue, lips, etc for the word. But for some reason

cannot remember the word at that very moment. My older son (ADHD and

CAPD) does exhibit this at times. However so does my " typical "

daughter.

Dawn in NJ

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Thank You .... :) Thank you for listening to me.

Marisa

> >

> > My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist

> has

> > mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with

her.

> > She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

> >

> > Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues?

or

> is

> > a seperate issue?

> >

> > Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like

we

> > are being sent backwards.

> >

>

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,

motor planning is not limited to what the brain is planning to carry

out.. but the transmission from the brain to the mouth. Or brain to

limb (Limb apraxia) Or brain to eye (Ocular apraxia) etc...

Have you ever seen your child open his/her mouth to say something,

but nothing comes out. It's actually a horrible sight to see. Abby

has done this many many times. Her brain knows exactly what she wants

to say. The problem is her mouth doesnt know how to get it out.

Cannot (motor) plan and execute it. Somewhere between the brain and

the mouth, something gets lost in transmission.

Im not an expert on word retrieval. I didn't spend endless nights up

on the pc reading about it, lol. But I think thats just a mater of

the child knowing the word, knowing how to say it, knowing the motor

planning of the tongue, lips, etc for the word. But for some reason

cannot remember the word at that very moment. My older son (ADHD and

CAPD) does exhibit this at times. However so does my " typical "

daughter.

Dawn in NJ

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Thank You .... :) Thank you for listening to me.

Marisa

> >

> > My dd has severe Apraxia of speech. Our private speech therapist

> has

> > mentioned that she noticed a bit of word retrieval issues with

her.

> > She is 4yrs old and finally making some progress with her speech.

> >

> > Does anyone elses child with Apraxia have word retieval issues?

or

> is

> > a seperate issue?

> >

> > Please help! Just when I think she is getting ahead, I feel like

we

> > are being sent backwards.

> >

>

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