Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)—also known as Heller’s syndrome, disintegrative psychosis, or dementia infantilis—is an extremely rare condition affecting about 1 in 100,000 children. What sets CDD apart is its late onset of developmental delays. Children with CDD might experience sudden or severe regression in key areas like language, motor skills, and social abilities.

The most puzzling part? Researchers still don’t know why this happens.

CDD vs. Autism: What’s the Difference?

While CDD shares some similarities with autism, it has its own unique identity. Austrian educator Theodor Heller first identified CDD in 1908—35 years before autism was described. Yet, some experts view CDD as a lower-functioning form of autism.

This connection explains why the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) reclassified CDD under the broader “autism spectrum disorder” (ASD) in 2013. It’s often referred to as “regressive autism”—a type of autism where developmental progress is followed by regression.

Signs of Regression in CDD

Children with CDD typically experience normal development for their first few years, but things take a dramatic turn. Regression usually starts after the age of three, and its impact can be profound.

Some children may even recognize what’s happening, asking heart-wrenching questions like, “Why can’t I do this anymore?” For parents and caregivers, this sudden loss of skills can feel devastating.

Understanding the Diagnostic Criteria for CDD

For a child to be officially diagnosed with CDD, they must meet the following criteria:

1. Age-Appropriate Development Followed by Regression: The child must have normal development until age 2–10. Then, they lose skills in at least two of these six functional areas:

• Expressive language

• Receptive language

• Social and self-care skills

• Bowel and bladder control

• Play skills

• Motor skills

2. Severe Impairments in Core Areas: Children with CDD experience deficits in:

• Social interactions

• Communication abilities

• Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests

3. More Severe Sensory Processing Challenges: Compared to children with autism, those with CDD often have more intense sensory processing difficulties. However, they tend to face fewer cognitive challenges.

4. Speech Challenges: Speech regression is more pronounced and less responsive to therapy or stimulants than in autism

Getting Help for Your Child

Receiving a diagnosis of CDD can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Early intervention and the right support can make a difference.

If you suspect your child might have CDD or notice unusual developmental changes, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. For families in Plano, Texas, Speech & OT is here to provide expert care tailored to your child’s needs.

January 01, 2025

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information, such as sounds, textures, smells, and visual stimuli. People with SPD may find it difficult to respond appropriately to sensory inputs, which can lead to challenges in everyday activities and interactions. This disorder can vary in severity, but there are several key symptoms that are commonly seen in those who experience it.

1. Uncoordinated Movements

One of the most noticeable symptoms of SPD is difficulty with coordination. Because the brain struggles to process sensory signals, individuals may have trouble performing everyday tasks that require precise movements. For some, this may mean bumping into objects like furniture or walls, while others may experience more significant balance issues that make walking or participating in sports a challenge.

2. Trouble with Communication

People with SPD often face difficulties in communication. They may struggle to understand or respond to simple questions, and holding a conversation can be overwhelming. The brain's misinterpretation of sensory signals, especially sound, can make it hard to focus or process verbal cues, which can lead to frustration and confusion. Social interactions may also feel taxing, and those with SPD may prefer to avoid prolonged periods of socializing to reduce sensory overload.

3. Sensitivity to Touch

Another hallmark of SPD is an intense dislike or aversion to touch. Simple physical contact, such as being hugged or even brushed by someone, can feel unbearable. Many children with SPD may react by becoming upset or even lashing out when touched. In some cases, individuals with the disorder can tolerate touch but only if they are given a warning in advance. This sensitivity extends beyond just physical touch—certain fabrics, textures, or sensations can cause discomfort or distress.

4. Aversion to Strong Flavors or Smells

A severe Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder is a heightened sensitivity to strong tastes or smells. Individuals with SPD may vomit when they eat foods with intense flavors or odors. As a result, they may prefer bland or simple foods that others might find unappealing. Children, in particular, are often labeled as "picky eaters," but this aversion to food could be related to the sensory challenges they face. After tasting a food that’s too strong or overwhelming, some may even refuse to eat for a period of time due to the lingering effects of the sensory overload.

5. Sensitivity to Temperature Changes

Children with SPD may also be highly sensitive to sudden or extreme changes in temperature. This can manifest in strong reactions to activities like taking a bath, moving from a warm indoor environment to a chilly outdoor one, or even eating very hot or cold foods. Such changes can lead to tears, discomfort, or frustration as their brains struggle to process the shifting sensory inputs.

Getting Help for Sensory Processing Disorder

At Speech & Occupational Therapy of Texas, we understand how challenging sensory processing disorder can be for both children and their families. With early intervention and the right therapeutic support, many of the symptoms of SPD can be managed, and children can learn coping strategies to better handle sensory challenges. Our team in Plano is here to assist with diagnosis and provide customized treatment plans tailored to your child's unique needs.

If you suspect that your child may have SPD, we invite you to visit us at our Plano clinic, where we can help you navigate the path to better sensory health.

November 27, 2024

 Storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it has powerful healing properties, both psychologically and physically. Good stories, when told well, can enhance the therapeutic process, even playing a vital role in speech therapy. Rooted in ancient traditions, storytelling’s hypnotic quality captivates the imagination, making it a valuable tool for speech and communication therapy.

So, how do we use storytelling in modern speech therapy? Here are some creative ways to incorporate stories that engage and inspire clients:

1. Create New Stories with Target Words: Start by listing a few target words, then craft various stories using them. Each version of the story will sound unique, showing how words can shape meaning and narrative.

2. Build an Ongoing Story: Write down target words and practice sentences with them. Start a story by introducing the setting or main character, then have each participant add a sentence using a target word. This collaborative storytelling fosters creativity and keeps everyone engaged.

3. Play WH Question Trivia: After a story, test your audience’s attention with trivia questions. Using WH questions (who, what, where, when, why, how) encourages participants to recall and engage. You can even add a buzzer or small rewards to make it fun.

4. Describe Me with Target Words: After the story, choose target words for each person to describe without directly saying them. The others guess the word, encouraging vocabulary expansion and descriptive language skills.

5. Retell Hopscotch: Create flashcards with target words or images and distribute them. Call out a word, and each person places their card down or hops to it if playing hopscotch. It’s a fun, active way to reinforce language learning.

Contact Us to Learn More

We offer these techniques and more at Speechandot clinics across Texas. Visit us in Plano at 1410 14th Street, or call us at (972) 424-0148. You’ll also find us in Frisco at 3880 Parkwood Blvd, Building 5, Suite 502, and in McKinney at 6200 Virginia Parkway. Reach out to find how storytelling can enhance speech therapy!

November 02, 2024

 Language disorders are classified into two main categories: expressive and receptive. An expressive language disorder is characterized by difficulty in conveying thoughts, ideas, or messages to others, whereas a receptive language disorder involves challenges in understanding and processing what others are saying. Some children may experience a combination of both, known as a mixed expressive-receptive disorder, where they struggle with both expressing and comprehending language.

Treatment of Expressive and Receptive Language Disorders

Speech therapy plays a crucial role in addressing language disorders. A speech therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on several factors, including:

• Age: The treatment approach will vary depending on the child's developmental stage.

• Overall Health and Medical History: Understanding any underlying conditions is important in shaping therapy.

• Severity of the Disorder: The level of difficulty in expressing or understanding language will guide the intensity and type of intervention.

• Tolerance to Certain Therapies or Procedures: Therapy is tailored to what the child can comfortably handle.

• Health Outcomes: The expected improvement and goals for the child’s communication abilities are considered.

• Family Preferences: The family's input and priorities are also incorporated into the plan.

Effective Learning Tools for Children with Language Disorders

There are various tools and strategies to help children with language disorders. Some of the most effective learning aids include:

• Books: Specially designed books can help develop language skills in a structured way.

• Language Disorder Apps: Interactive apps geared toward language development offer fun and engaging ways for children to practice.

• Experiential Activities: Hands-on experiences that encourage communication can be valuable in learning language.

However, one of the most powerful tools is parental involvement. As a parent, your knowledge of language and communication is key. Speaking to your child with exaggerated facial movements and clear, slow speech, while using non-verbal cues, can significantly help with language development. Your child’s speech therapist may also recommend specific tools and exercises suited for your child’s age and needs.

These combined efforts, both at home and with professional guidance, can support your child's progress in overcoming language challenges.

September 25, 2024

 Thanks to significant advancements in technology and early identification, children with hearing loss are making remarkable progress in oral communication. Today, it is entirely feasible for a child with severe hearing loss to develop oral language, attend their local public school, and thrive academically.

Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be categorized into two primary types:

1. Conductive Loss: This type of hearing loss occurs when the outer or middle ear fails to function correctly, leading to sounds being “blocked” and not carried to the inner ear for processing. Conductive losses are often treatable with medication or surgery. Ear infections, which cause fluid buildup in the middle ear, are a common cause of conductive hearing loss.

2. Sensorineural Loss: The most common type of hearing loss, sensorineural loss, occurs due to issues within the inner ear or auditory nerve. Unlike conductive loss, this type is not typically treatable with surgery. However, hearing aids or cochlear implants can be highly effective in managing the condition. Sensorineural loss can affect one or both ears and can vary in severity and frequency.

The Range of Hearing Loss

The human ear is capable of hearing a wide range of frequencies, from a low 125 Hz to a high 8000 Hz. Speech sounds span across all these frequencies. The severity of hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB) on a scale from 0 to 120 dB. Here’s a breakdown of hearing loss severity:

• Normal Hearing: -10 to 15 dB

• Slight Hearing Loss: 16 to 25 dB

• Mild Hearing Loss: 26 to 40 dB

• Moderate Hearing Loss: 41 to 55 dB

• Moderately-Severe Hearing Loss: 56 to 70 dB

• Severe Hearing Loss: 71 to 90 dB

• Profound Hearing Loss: 90+ dB

It is common for individuals to experience varying degrees of hearing loss across different frequencies, meaning they may hear some sounds better than others.

Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants

For individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids are often the first line of treatment. Audiologists carefully tune these devices to amplify the sounds that the patient struggles to hear, while optimizing the sounds that they can already hear well.

In cases where hearing aids are not sufficient due to the severity of the hearing loss, cochlear implants become a viable option. These implants can be used in children as young as one year old. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass the damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.

The Role of Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and language therapy play a crucial role in the development of communication skills for children and adults with hearing loss. For children, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with expertise in hearing loss help their patients become aware of sounds, recognize and identify words, and begin to comprehend spoken language.

For adults, SLPs assist with aural rehabilitation, teaching communication strategies to maximize their residual hearing. Involvement of an SLP is essential for anyone diagnosed with hearing loss to fully maximize their oral language and communication abilities.

Source URL: https://www.speechandot.com/hearing-loss-cochlear-implants/

September 02, 2024

 Articulation disorder in children is characterized by an inability to make specific word sounds properly after the expected age. This speech sound disorder often involves substituting one sound for another and slurred or indistinct speech.

Although speech therapy is a vital element in correcting articulation problems, here are some ways to help your child with articulation skills in various environments outside of therapy:

1. Practice Revision Daily

Revision is a technique where you repeat what your child has just said, but with the correct pronunciation. It’s also helpful to give the incorrect word sound extra emphasis. You can practice revision in almost any setting, whether during playtime, at the grocery store, or while driving.

2. Avoid Imitating Your Child’s Errors

Instead of imitating the ways your child pronounces or leaves out sounds, model correct speech. While the ways your child pronounces words can be extremely cute, avoid reinforcing incorrect articulation by laughing at or repeating them. Consider taking a video of your child’s adorable utterances to cherish once they’ve corrected them.

3. Read, Read, Read to Your Child

Reading to your child plays a vital role in their development, including their speech. Listening to you read allows them to enjoy a story while you model correct articulation, making for a speech lesson in disguise. This strategy is especially effective if you read books specifically designed for articulation skills.

4. Incorporate Modeling into Play

Like reading to your child, modeling correct speech during play is a way to sneak in a speech lesson. Whether you’re playing a board game or taking a nature walk, leisure time with your child provides entertainment and subconscious learning opportunities.

5. Narrate Daily Routines

As you and your child go about your daily routines such as getting ready for daycare or school, picking up toys, and during mealtimes, narrate the things you both are doing. This provides a larger variety of words to practice in different settings.

6. Practice Successful Words

While modeling correct pronunciation of words your child struggles with is essential, it’s also important to practice words your child has corrected successfully. This helps them solidify their corrections and reinforces a sense of accomplishment for a job well done.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech and language development, please contact Speech and Occupational Therapy of North Texas to schedule a consultation.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routines, you can support your child's progress in overcoming articulation disorder and improving their speech skills. Please call us at 972-424-0148

July 28, 2024

 The Interactive Metronome (IM) is a brain-based rehabilitation assessment and training program designed to enhance processing abilities that influence attention, motor planning, and sequencing. This program aims to improve motor skills such as mobility and gross motor function, as well as fundamental cognitive capacities including planning, organizing, and language.

Who Can Benefit?

The IM program is beneficial for individuals with a variety of challenges, including motor planning and sequencing problems, speech and language delays, motor and sensory disorders, learning deficits, and various cognitive and physical difficulties. Both adult and pediatric patients can benefit from IM, particularly those with:

• Sensory Integration Disorder
• Asperger Syndrome
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• ADD/ADHD
• Cerebral Palsy

Benefits

Motor planning and sequencing issues are associated with a range of developmental, behavioral, and learning challenges. Over a decade of clinical research on IM has shown that improvements in motor planning and sequencing can lead to enhancements in:

• Attention and Concentration
• Language Processing
• Behavior (reducing Aggression and Impulsivity)
• Motor Control and Coordination
• Academic Performance

Expert Endorsement

This information is provided by Cheryl Miller-Scott, OTR/L, the National Director of Clinical Services at Health South Hospitals. Her endorsement highlights the significance of IM in fostering improvements across various domains of cognitive and physical function.

June 30, 2024