Specific actions involving the mouth, face, and tongue, such as lip rounding, tongue protrusion, and jaw movements, serve as models for individuals to replicate. For instance, a therapist might demonstrate blowing a kiss, and the individual would then attempt to reproduce the same action. These modeled actions help develop and strengthen the muscles used for speech, eating, and other essential functions.
Developing these skills is crucial for accurate sound production during speech, safe and efficient swallowing, and overall oral-facial control. Historically, the focus on these foundational skills has grown alongside advancements in speech-language pathology and our understanding of the interconnectedness of oral motor abilities and communication. Enhanced techniques and strategies have emerged, enabling more effective intervention and support for individuals with a range of communication and feeding difficulties.
