October 11, 2026 · 1:03 · Assessment
When a Child Can't Engage in Dynamic Assessment Yet
If you suspect CAS but the child can't yet manage a dynamic assessment like the DEMSS, begin motor-based treatment and let the child's response to cueing guide your decisions.
Full transcript
What if you suspect childhood apraxia of speech, but your client can't fully engage in a dynamic assessment?
A dynamic assessment like the DEMSS asks a lot of a child. They need to watch your face, try to imitate words, and tolerate cueing. Some children can't do that yet. The DEMSS manual even says to stop testing when a child needs maximum cueing on the easiest items, so you don't lose their cooperation or the rapport you've built.
If you suspect CAS, begin treatment with a motor approach. Focus on accurate movement for a small set of functional words, give lots of practice, and use the support the child needs, like a slower rate, saying it together, and touch cues.
Then watch how the child responds to that support, because their response will keep guiding your decisions.
