Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement, posture, and coordination due to damage to the developing brain, often before or shortly after birth. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood and can vary widely in its impact, from mild to severe. Some children with CP also experience challenges with communication.
Speech and language therapy can empower children with Cerebral Palsy to communicate more effectively, fostering greater independence and social connection. At our central Norwich clinic, we offer individualised support in areas such as:
Our experienced team understands the complex needs of children with Cerebral Palsy and works closely with families to create an individualised therapy plan. We aim to make each session enjoyable, practical, and meaningful for your child’s communication goals.
We understand that children and young people spend as much time in education as they do at home, so it is important to us that nursery/school staff and parents/carers all know how best to support the child. This means that we provide sessions both in clinic and in education settings, as appropriate in each individual case, supporting all those around the child.
If you’d like to find out more about how we can support your child’s communication development, please contact us.
Useful Information:
It can, but not always. Some people with cerebral palsy have no speech difficulties, while others may find speech harder due to muscle control or coordination differences that affect the mouth, tongue or breathing.
Speech difficulties are usually related to how muscles are controlled. Tight, weak or poorly coordinated muscles in the face, mouth or throat can make it harder to form sounds clearly, control breathing, or speak at a steady pace.
Dysarthria is a speech disorder caused by muscle weakness or poor coordination. Many people with Cerebral Palsy who have speech difficulties experience Dysarthria, which can make speech sound slow, slurred, quiet or difficult to understand.
No. Speech can be affected differently depending on the type of cerebral palsy:
Speech and language therapy supports communication by working on speech clarity, breath control, muscle coordination and effective communication strategies. Therapy is personalised to the individual’s needs and goals.
Yes. Speech and Language Therapists can assess and support eating, drinking and swallowing if needed, helping to improve safety, comfort and confidence during meals.
Many people benefit from AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). This includes tools such as:
AAC supports people to express themselves fully, regardless of how clear their speech is.
No. Using AAC does not prevent speech development. In many cases, it supports communication, reduces frustration and can encourage language and interaction alongside spoken speech.
Read about our top 3 recommended AAC Apps.
Helpful strategies include:
At any stage. Early support can help build strong communication foundations, but speech and language therapy can be beneficial at any age to support communication, participation and quality of life.
