Apraxia Kids will host the 2020 Alaska Virtual Walk for Apraxia to continue the efforts of supporting children, families, and professionals affected by childhood apraxia of speech. Registered participants will have the opportunity to view the privately released virtual ceremony on September 5 and are encouraged to spread awareness by walking in their own local areas.
The funds raised through the Alaska Walk for Apraxia benefit Apraxia Kids, the leading nonprofit that works to strengthen the support systems in the lives of children with childhood apraxia of speech. This organization educates both families and speech-language professionals, endorses evidence based research, and spreads awareness about this disorder so that children can reach their highest communication potential through accurate diagnosis and appropriate, timely treatment.
Sarah White, Chair of the Board for Apraxia Kids discusses how their organization has had to adapt during the COVID-19 emergency: “Our 45 online support groups on Facebook are active and providing parents with a safe and supportive outlet for asking questions, sharing frustrations, and offering hope. We continue to share resources across social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Articles, downloads, and webinars are available to help parents and children work towards speech goals while staying at home. We are developing new content as quickly as we can while continuing to ensure that the information we share is evidence-based and accurate. Our staff is working harder than ever to support you from the safety of their homes.”
All Walk for Apraxia events in North America were changed to a virtual experience to ensure the health and safety of all participants.
Childhood apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with this diagnosis generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say, but have difficulty learning or carrying out the complex sequenced movements that are necessary for intelligible speech. There is no cure and treatment often requires many years of intense speech therapy.
Information on how to attend the 2020 Alaska Walk for Apraxia can be found online.