Strengthening Speech and Feeding Skills
Oro-motor therapy focuses on strengthening and coordinating the muscles of the mouth, jaw, tongue, and lips that are essential for speech production and safe eating. Our specialized approach combines evidence-based techniques to help children develop clear communication skills and overcome feeding challenges.
Key Components of Oro-motor Function
Understanding the oral structures and functions that support speech and feeding
Jaw Stability
Proper jaw positioning and movement for speech sound production and chewing
Tongue Mobility
Coordinated tongue movements for articulation and food manipulation
Lip Coordination
Lip strength and movement for speech sounds and food containment
Cheek Function
Cheek muscle control for food processing and speech clarity
Oral Sensation
Awareness of food textures and oral positioning for safety
Breathing Coordination
Proper breath support for sustained speech and safe swallowing
Signs Your Child May Need Oro-motor Therapy
Children with oro-motor challenges may show difficulties in both speech and feeding areas
Speech-Related Signs
Feeding-Related Signs
Our Oro-motor Therapy Approach
Our speech-language pathologists use evidence-based oro-motor techniques combined with functional speech and feeding activities. We create individualized treatment plans that address each child's specific oral-motor needs while making therapy engaging and fun.
Comprehensive Assessment
Detailed evaluation of oral structures, function, and speech/feeding abilities
Individualized Treatment
Customized therapy plans targeting specific oro-motor and speech goals
Functional Activities
Real-world speech and feeding tasks integrated into therapy sessions
Oral Exercises
Targeted exercises to strengthen and coordinate oral muscles
Parent Training
Home program instruction for continued practice and progress
Progress Monitoring
Regular assessment and adjustment of treatment strategies
Conditions We Support
Our oro-motor and speech therapy helps children with various conditions affecting oral function
Articulation Disorders
Dysphagia (Swallowing Disorders)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Oral Sensory Issues
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Cleft Lip/Palate
Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)
Therapy Techniques & Activities
Evidence-based techniques to improve oral-motor function and speech production
Oral Strengthening
Exercises to build strength and endurance in oral muscles
Coordination Training
Activities to improve timing and coordination of oral movements
Sensory Awareness
Techniques to improve oral sensation and awareness
Age-Specific Oro-motor Development
Understanding normal oro-motor development helps identify when intervention is needed
Infants & Toddlers (0-2 years)
Focus on basic feeding skills and early speech sound development
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
Development of speech sounds and complex feeding skills
School Age (6+ years)
Refinement of speech clarity and advanced oral skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about oro-motor and speech therapy
What is oro-motor therapy and how does it differ from speech therapy?
Oro-motor therapy specifically focuses on strengthening and coordinating the muscles of the mouth, jaw, tongue, and lips. While speech therapy addresses communication skills broadly, oro-motor therapy targets the physical foundation needed for clear speech and safe eating.
How do I know if my child needs oro-motor therapy?
Signs include unclear speech, difficulty chewing age-appropriate foods, excessive drooling, frequent choking during meals, or preference for only smooth textures. A speech-language pathologist can evaluate your child's oro-motor skills.
Can oro-motor therapy help with feeding problems?
Yes, oro-motor therapy is highly effective for feeding difficulties. It helps children develop the muscle strength and coordination needed for safe chewing and swallowing of various food textures.
How long does oro-motor therapy typically take?
The duration varies based on the child's specific needs and severity of difficulties. Some children may see improvements in a few months, while others may need longer-term support. Regular practice at home helps accelerate progress.
What can parents do at home to support oro-motor development?
Parents can encourage oral exploration through safe toys, practice blowing bubbles or whistles, offer varied food textures appropriate for age, and follow home exercise programs provided by the therapist.