Understanding the Brain’s Role in Feeding and Swallowing After Brain Injury
Learn how brain injuries impact feeding and swallowing, and explore specialized therapies for recovery.
Feeding is a Full-Body Experience: How Every Inch of Your Child Matters, from Head to Toe
Feeding involves more than just the mouth; it requires the whole body. Your child's posture, strength, breathing, and reflexes are key for successful mealtimes. When the body is stable, the jaw, lips, and tongue function better together. By seeing feeding as a complete process, we help your child build skills for safe and confident eating and swallowing that support their overall growth.
Why should my child’s SLP care about reflex integration?
Reflex integration is crucial for your child's speech and feeding development. Unintegrated reflexes can hinder therapy progress. An SLP who integrates these reflexes addresses underlying issues, fostering a stronger foundation for communication and feeding success. This holistic approach supports your child's overall development, unlocking their full potential.
Reflexes That Impact Speech and Feeding Development
Reflexes significantly impact speech and feeding development, often unrecognized. Reflexes like the Babkin Palmomental and Hands Grasp Reflex influence jaw, lip, and tongue movements essential for chewing, swallowing, and talking. Incomplete reflex integration can lead to muscle imbalances and disrupt fine motor skills necessary for eating and speaking. Addressing these reflexes enhances nervous system movement control, improving clear communication and safe eating foundations.