By Brigiett Ritchie, B.S.
Meta’s Oral Myofunctional Therapist
The holidays are full of delicious meals and treats, and every bite can help your child grow stronger in more ways than one! Here are a few simple tips to keep mouths (and mealtimes) healthy and happy this season.
1. Rest That Tongue
Encourage kids to rest their tongue on the roof of their mouth when not eating or talking.
2. Chew It Up
Holiday favorites like turkey or crunchy veggies are great for building strong jaw muscles.
3. Nose Breathing Wins
Remind children to breathe through their nose, especially between bites.
4. Enjoy Treats in Moderation
Limit sugary snacks and balance them with wholesome foods.
5. Little Kitchen Helpers
Let kids help plan or prepare meals. They’re more likely to try new foods when they’re involved.
6. Sit Tall at the Table
Good posture helps with safe chewing and swallowing.
7. Mix It Up
Offer foods with a variety of textures to encourage exploration and oral skill-building.
8. Small Bites, Big Benefits
Encourage small, manageable bites to improve chewing control.
9. Chew and Chat
Chewing different textures strengthens the same muscles used for speech!
10. Celebrate New Tastes
Every new texture or flavor helps kids grow confident, flexible, and ready for healthy eating.
Conclusion
This holiday season make mealtime meaningful. Build strong bodies, confident eaters, and happy memories around the table!
