Traumatic brain injury: Effects on speech

What is traumatic brain injury?

Traumatic brain injury (often called TBI) occurs when there is damage to the brain. The injury may or may not result in a loss of consciousness. The effect of traumatic brain injury will differ from person to person. The short- and long-term effects will vary based on severity of the injury, age at the time of injury, and abilities before the injury.

What should I expect?

Effects may include one or more of the following:

• trouble with word-finding
• short-term memory loss
• disorganization of thoughts and speech
• difficulty understanding information
• impaired social skills
• weakness in face muscles
• trouble producing speech sounds
• trouble saying words
• eating and swallowing problems
• changes in attention
• mood swings
• trouble showing emotion
• impulsiveness (acting before thinking)
• change in energy level
• confusion

It is important to remember that your child can continue to have changes with the above effects over time.

What can I do to help my child?

• Speak slowly and clearly to your child.
• Use short sentences.
• Break directions down into smaller steps.
• Repeat directions as necessary.
• Allow your child extra time to respond.
• Allow your child extra time to complete tasks.
• Let your child rest or nap often.
• Be patient.
• Expect frustration for you and your child.
• Encourage routines and schedules. Try writing the schedule down or drawing it for your child.
• Avoid distractions (such as TV, radio, clutter).

What else do I need to know?

You and your child may benefit from the services of many different professionals and agencies during recovery, including:

• child life specialists
• doctors
• neuropsychologists
• occupational therapists
• physical therapists
• school and county services
• speech-language pathologists
• support groups

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child, but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the nearest Children's Developmental and Rehabilitation department.

Children's – Minneapolis: 651-220-6000
Children's – St. Paul: 651-220-6880
Children's – Woodbury: 651-232-6860
Children's – Maple Grove: 763-416-8700
Children's – Roseville: 651-638-1670
Children's – Minnetonka: 952-930-8630

Back To Top