Senate Resolution No. 1916

BY: Senator BASKIN

RECOGNIZING May 2026, as Apraxia Awareness Month
in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of disorders that
affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
recognize May 2026, as Apraxia Awareness Month in the State of New York;
and

WHEREAS, The month of May has been designated as Apraxia Awareness
Month and is a time to raise awareness about Childhood Apraxia of Speech
(CAS), a rare and challenging neurological speech disorder that affects
1 in 1,000 children, impacting their ability to plan and execute the
precise movements necessary for speech as carried out by the Robert
Warner Center for Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation at
Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo; and

WHEREAS, Childhood Apraxia of Speech is a complex and often
misunderstood disorder; while children with CAS typically have a strong
understanding of language and know what they wish to say, they face
significant difficulties coordinating the movements needed to articulate
their thoughts; andng the movements needed to articulate their thoughts;
and

WHEREAS, Early diagnosis and intervention by Speech-Language
Pathologists (SLPs) are critical to helping children with CAS develop
speech and communication skills, as well as preventing secondary
challenges in reading, writing, and other academic areas; and

WHEREAS, Apraxia Awareness Month provides an opportunity to honor
children living with Childhood Apraxia of Speech, their families who
love and care for them, and the professionals who support them,
recognizing their strength, determination, and resilience in overcoming
challenges; and

WHEREAS, Increasing public awareness of Childhood Apraxia of Speech
is essential to ensuring that families, educators, healthcare providers,
policymakers, and community members work together to advocate for
services, research, and resources that empower children with CAS to find
their voices; and

WHEREAS, During the month of May, workplaces, schools, and
communities across New York State are encouraged to wear blue and
organize events to promote understanding, foster inclusion, and
celebrate the achievements of children with CAS; and

WHEREAS, Children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech inspire us all
Through their courage and perseverance in their journey to communicate
and connect with the world; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize May 2026, as Apraxia Awareness Month in the State of New York,
and to encourage all citizens to support and advocate for children with
Childhood Apraxia of Speech and their families, as well as the
professionals who work tirelessly to improve their lives; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Robert Warner Center for Developmental Pediatrics and
Rehabilitation at Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo.