Congratulations to Rebecca Kennedy-Briand, SLP, MSpPathSt, Reg. CASLPO, for graduating from the Apraxia Kids Intensive Training Institute (Apraxia Boot Camp)!

Rebecca has close to a decade of clinical experience working with preschool and school-aged clients in a variety of practice settings. She currently supports a preschool speech and language program at a children’s treatment centre and works as a part of a multi-disciplinary team. Rebecca has training and experience in pediatric feeding and dysphagia, AAC, literacy, auditory skill development (for children who use hearing technology), speech sound and language disorders. Rebecca is a passionate clinician who actively engages in ongoing professional development. She is excited to use her knowledge and skills from the Apraxia Kids Boot Camp to support her clients and community. Rebecca resides in London, Ontario, Canada.

Rebecca offers services in London, Ontario, Canada.

Apraxia Kids: What are the top 3 things you learned from this training experience?
Rebecca: From Boot Camp, I learned about the research evidence for CAS. I gained confidence in my ability to differentiate CAS from other speech sound disorders. I am more familiar with interventions for Apraxia that are supported by evidence. Additionally, I developed a much more comprehensive understanding of the Principles of Motor Learning and how and why to include PML in therapy for CAS.

Apraxia Kids: How did the boot camp experience change or expand your network of colleagues/friends?
Rebecca: I was so impressed by the support that is provided by Boot Camp! The mentors, the Facebook groups, and the participants. It was so enjoyable to learn with like-minded professionals who are as passionate about Apraxia and keen to learn. It is such an honour to be a Boot Camp graduate and know that I can reach out in so many ways with questions and/or for support.

Apraxia Kids: How have you implemented the knowledge you gained at boot camp?
Rebecca: I am using assessment tools and treatment approaches that are evidence-based for Apraxia, as well as including the principles of motor learning.

Apraxia Kids: What is an example of how you have been able to (or plan to) use your expertise as a local resource/support for other professionals and/or families since attending the intensive training?
Rebecca: I was immediately able to apply the knowledge that I learned at Boot Camp with clients and families. With colleagues, I have shared resources that I learned about. I look forward to continuing to share the knowledge that I gained with colleagues and families.

Apraxia Kids: What would you say to someone considering applying to boot camp next round?
Rebecca: GO FOR IT! Boot Camp is an amazing experience and well worth the time and effort! The intensive learning experience at Boot Camp was exactly what I was looking for to develop my knowledge and skill set regarding Apraxia. The instructors were incredible and I participated with wonderful like-minded colleagues who were also keen to learn about Apraxia. Even though the 2021 Boot Camp was virtual, I found it extremely valuable and really enjoyed the experience.