Yes. While every case is different, many with cerebral palsy have difficulty speaking, and some cannot speak at all. Speaking relies on a coordinated effort between the muscles around the mouth, neck, and throat. When a cerebral palsy diagnosis impacts these muscles, speech can be difficult.

Cerebral palsy can cause a broad range of speech-related difficulties, including:

• Difficulty making certain sounds or pronouncing certain letter combinations
• Trouble completing sentences without interruption
• Difficulty controlling the tone or volume of voice
• Challenges expressing oneself using words
• Difficulty swallowing

Many who suffer from cerebral palsy benefit greatly from speech therapy to learn to speak more effectively or communicate through sign language. The sooner children with cerebral palsy learn to communicate, the more quickly they can overcome many of the disorder’s challenges.