Crazy Straws - Oral Motor

The ability to suck through different types of straws increases the breath control and general oral motor skills. There are many types of straws from straight to crazy and curvy. A straw that is wide and straight is going to be easier to suck up the liquid, than a straw that is narrow and curvy. Begin with simple and work towards the more difficult straws. Consider the width, length, and amount of curves when buying straws. Another way to create more of a challenge is to change the thickness of the liquid. Things like a milkshake are also more challenging to suck through a straw than water. You can find fun straws at places like party supply stores and grocery stores. 

Sticky Licking Oral Motor Tip #1

Building oral motor skills is critical because these skills help us talk, eat, and of course pull faces at each other. Spread a sticky substance such as peanut butter, marshmallow cream, Karo syrup, or honey onto a cookie sheet and then using only your tongue lick the yumminess all gone. This will help develop strength along with tongue stability.