There are some really great CAS resources available online and OPPEN CAS is a strong believer in not “recreating the wheel”. We strive to address Ontario-based issues, while highlighting the incredible work of others around the world. We would like to draw special attention to the resources that we regularly turn to, for access to good, reliable, and honest information. For now, let’s start with:
Apraxia Kids
The webpage of CASANA (Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America) – for all things reliable and up to date, across North America. Incredible webinars (live and on-demand), shop for merchandise and resources, parent and SLP start guides with step by step Q&A for your journey, event listings, vast library of resource information & much much more.
Some of our favourite pages from this site include:
· The Family Start Guide – an incredible compilation of answers to the questions many families have at the start of their journey
· The SLP Start Guide – a thorough collection of information to assist a SLP or professional navigating CAS
· Learning webinars available on-demand – available with a wide range of topics, these webinars can be watched in the comfort of your own space and on your own time. SLPs can also use these webinars towards professional development credit (which is also true of any time spent learning from the CASANA webpage too!)
· Information downloads – a variety of materials available to download for others in your life including teachers and relatives. Also a great option for SLPs to provide in their clinic to spread awareness and education clients.
· Items available from the CASANA store for Apraxia Awareness – these include decals, posters, jewelry, brochures and other items suitable for education, advocacy and gifts to raise awareness.
· The News Page – a place to get caught up on all the latest CASANA news including the annual National Conference, Summer Camps for kids with CAS, applications for the iPads for Apraxia program, and information on the Intensive Training Institute available for SLPs.
SLP Mommy of Apraxia
Laura Smith is both a mother of a child with CAS and a Speech-Language Pathologist. Her website includes a blog about her journey wearing both hats that is written so beautifully and honestly it frequently moves us to tears. Her site also includes great resources such as therapy materials, book ideas, app reviews and more making it an excellent resources for both professionals and parents.
