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July, 2006
Speech & Language Tip
of the Month
Oral Motor
Oral motor
therapies are important for children with severe
articulation, feeding and/or sensory impairments.
Prescribed exercises can greatly improve muscular
function to facilitate feeding and speaking. A
Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational
Therapist may perform specific exercises to
strengthen muscles of the face. While some of these
exercises should only be executed by a trained
professional, there are many activities that can be
performed at home that are fun and easy, and will
also contribute to the improvement of oral motor
functioning. Here are some suggested activities:
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Blowing bubbles
-
This works on “rounding” the lips and
airflow that is crucial for many sounds
· Licking
peanut butter, frosting, yogurt or marshmallow cream
with the tongue when placed on the roof of the mouth
or behind the top front teeth.
o
This works on tongue elevation which is used on
sounds like /t,d,l,n/, and for efficient chewing and
swallowing
· Licking
peanut butter, frosting, yogurt or marshmallow cream
with the tongue when placed on the top lip.
o
This also works on tongue elevation
· Licking
peanut butter, frosting, yogurt or marshmallow cream
with the tongue when placed on the corners/side of
lips.
o
This works on lateralization of the tongue (moving
it to the side) which is needed for efficient
chewing and swallowing
· Have
the child “spear” cheerios or apple jacks on the
table and with his tongue. No hands or lips can be
used.
o
This works on tongue protrusion.
· Lick
ice cream, lollipops, or popsicles
o
This works on tongue protrusion and elevation.
· If
your child is able to imitate try these activities
while looking in a mirror:
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Tongue clicks
o
Lip
smacks
o
Fishy face
o
Silly faces
o
Blowing “raspberries” with lips
These activities can be a fun way to get the whole
family involved with your child’s therapy goals.
For more information on exercises that target
specific muscles contact your child’s licensed
Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational
Therapist.
Sincerely,
Meredith B. Sorokwasz M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
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