Once sucking has integrated from a reflex between 3-4 months to volitional motor patterns, we want to focus on chewing instead of sucking as the primary exercise. By working on chewing, we are strengthening the muscles of the mouth and helping the baby coordinate oral movements which transfers over to sucking skills at breast, bottle, and cup. This prepares baby to become ready to eat solid foods as well. Baby gets several months to practice coordinating chewing on fingers, toes, toys and teethers before the expectation of needing to break down food before swallowing. If your baby has any difficulty with chewing, work with a qualified and specially trained IBCLC lactation consultant, pediatric occupational or speech therapist. For private consultations go to www.lalactation.com to book online.
This video is mean for education purposes only. Exercises should be done under the direct supervision of a trained therapist or IBCLC as the needs of every baby are different.
For a full, comprehensive course on everything parents need to know about tongue and lip ties, enroll in Tied & Untied today at lalactation.teachable.com
If you’re a health care provider, consider taking the provider course I am teach for, Infant Frenectomy Protocol spearheaded by the amazing Dr Chelsea Pinto, DDS found here: www.infantfrenectomyprotocol....
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