Engagement and effectiveness of a telehealth dynamic temporal and tactile cueing treatment program for children with childhood apraxia of speech

PURPOSE: The effectiveness of using telehealth in treatment for Childhood Apraxia of Speech is largely unknown. This study explores the feasibility of delivering Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing through telehealth. METHOD: A single-case multiple-baseline experimental design was used for this feasibility study. Participants completed 5 weeks of intervention (two sessions per week). Analysis included visual analysis and Improved Rate Difference and the Modified Inconsistency Severity Percentage. Engagement was evaluated using the Factors Affecting Child Engagement in Telehealth Sessions. RESULT: Two participants were recruited: Margo and Ryan. Margo showed a large effect size (improved rate difference = 80%) on treated words; however, Ryan had little to no change (improved rate difference = 46%). Margo had high levels of engagement with a low mean distractibility score of 1.7, while Ryan had lower levels of engagement, with a mean distractibility score of 7.7. CONCLUSION: While Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing via telehealth may be delivered effectively for some children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech, it may not be appropriate for others. Factors such as the need for another adult to help with cueing may impact the success of Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing when delivered via telehealth. Some children may be a better fit for telehealth than others.