What type of therapy is commonly involved in the long-term care plan for children with cleft palate?

The long-term care plan for children with cleft palate commonly involves speech therapy due to the potential impact of the condition on a child's ability to articulate sounds and develop proper speech patterns. Cleft palate can affect the structure of the oral cavity, leading to difficulties in pronunciation, resonance, and overall communication. Speech therapy focuses on helping children overcome these challenges by improving their speech clarity and fluency.

In addition to speech support, therapists often work with children on language development skills, which are critical for effective communication and social interaction. Targeted exercises and interventions can assist in correcting any speech issues that arise from the anatomical differences associated with cleft palate.

While occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral therapy may play important roles in a child's overall development or in addressing separate concerns, they are not as central to addressing the communication challenges specifically associated with cleft palate.