Difficulty forming words and speaking clearly, along with other speech and language disorders, are present in more than three-quarters of those with cerebral palsy. A lack of control of the throat, mouth, and tongue muscles can cause both children and adults with CP to experience excessive drooling. Receptive language involves what a child hears and how they understand what they hear. Expressive language is what a child says and how well they communicate with others.
Early communication interventions can significantly decrease the challenges associated with delays in speech and language. When a child cannot make themselves understood by others, it creates frustration and anger. The inability to communicate can cause self-isolation, temper tantrums, and other behavioral issues among younger children with cerebral palsy.