How do you teach your child to chew their food (rather than washing it down with their drink)?
If you have a child, then I am sure you can relate this sentiment. You’re enjoying a peaceful dinner, glance over in the direction of your child only to see their mouth stuffed so full food is falling out as they *attempt* to chew. (And I use the term ‘attempt’ lightly here.)
While their mouth is still over-stuffed, they take a drink of water and wash.it.all.down.
HOW in the world they got it down, you’ll never know- but it takes your breath away and maybe one of your lives every single time. It’s incredible they didn’t choke and you know it’s only a matter of time, right? What if we took all the guesswork and pain out of this dynamic and helped you find a solution that would help to keep your child safe during meal times?
When a child overstuffs and fails to chew their food fully, there is a big chance they have an undiagnosed orofacial myofunctional disorder. I know- it’s a mouth full but not as complicated as it sounds. Myofunctional therapy addresses the root causes of overstuffing and chewing disorders, which is often incompetence in some or all of the muscles of the orofacial complex (muscles of the face and mouth.) There may also be a sensory component, but myofunctional therapy can still be incredibly beneficial even in instances where sensory issues play a part of the bigger picture.
I view myofunctional therapy as the “unsung hero” to many children who would otherwise never receive help. It fills in the gaps where other therapies stop and helps to bridge skills together as necessary to build cohesive oral motor and respiratory health.
If your child is 4 or older, you can find a myofunctional therapist from our directory and request a screening or evaluation! If they are under 4, find a therapist from our feeding therapist directory and request a screening or evaluation. Screenings are quick tools to determine if a full evaluation is warranted. Check with a provider in your area to see which they recommend. We can’t wait for you to experience meal times with NO stress, because your child is chewing well!
