Your little one might say “pasghetti” instead of “spaghetti,” and although she’s still drooling in a bib while her friends have moved on, you might wonder if there’s a concern. It’s understandable to consider having her assessed for oral-motor disorders.
Mispronunciations and mouth mishaps are typical in toddler development. Just like they need to strengthen their leg muscles before walking, kids must also build the muscles in their mouths to eat, drink, and speak properly. While every child transitions from babbling to coherent speech at their own pace, certain delays or issues might indicate an oral-motor or motor-speech disorder. Here’s what you should know about these developmental challenges:
What are Oral-Motor Disorders?
An oral-motor disorder affects a child’s ability to control their lips, tongue, and jaw, making it difficult to master essential skills like talking, eating, or even sipping from a straw. These disorders can be physical, but they often include a neurological aspect as well. Two common conditions include:
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS): Often referred to as dyspraxia, this disorder makes it hard for kids to coordinate their mouth movements to form words.
- Articulation Disorders: This category includes issues like lisping, omitting consonants, or substituting one sound for another.
What are the Signs of Oral-Motor and Speech-Motor Disorders?
Children with these disorders might exhibit the following signs:
- A droopy or “long” face with a frequently open mouth
- Avoidance of food that requires chewing
- Frequent gagging during meals, not just when faced with disliked foods
- Being shorter or lighter than peers
- Difficulty sticking out or moving their tongue
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In summary, while it’s common for toddlers to mispronounce words and drool, persistent issues may signal oral-motor or motor-speech disorders. Observing your child’s behavior and seeking professional advice can help ensure they receive the support they may need.