Almost all people with SAS have severe problems with speech, with very few exceptions. This can be due to various speech disorders, most frequently childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). This is a neurological speech disorder in which the brain has trouble planning and directing speech motor actions. See also https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-apraxia-of-speech/symptoms-causes/syc-20352045#
About half of the people with SAS are completely non-verbal, and another one third speaks less than ten words. The problems with speech are not related to understanding language, which is usually in range with cognitive functioning. The limited speech hampers communication, which can lead to frustration and behavioural issues.
Management:
It’s important to stimulate and support communication from an early age. This can be done by speech and language therapy, f.i. therapies directed at CAS, and the use of augmentative and alternative communication. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) means all other forms of communication besides spoken language, for instance the use of gestures, sign language and/or a communication device. More often than not, individuals with SAS use more than one mode of communication. Contrary to what is sometimes thought, the use of AAC does not slow down speech development, but can actually stimulate speech and language development in a broad sense.
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