This is an open space to connect with other parents. Ask questions, share thoughts, or check in, whatever feels helpful in the moment, related to tongue tie or not. There’s no pressure to stay on topic or have the “right” words. This is parent to parent support 🤍

Each week I'll add exercises and strategies under each for each of the following topics: · PART 1 Tongue strength and position · PART 2 Lip and cheek function · PART 3 Jaw control and chewing · PART 4 Nasal breathing · PART 5 Posture and alignment PART 1 TONGUE STRENGTH & POSITION WHY TONGUE TRAINING MATTERS The tongue is not just for eating and talking — it plays a central role in how your child’s face, airway, and body develop. When your child’s tongue rests correctly (on the roof of the mouth): - It helps the upper jaw grow wide and strong - Supports straight teeth and proper bite alignment - Creates more space for the airway If the tongue is low, weak, or not functioning well: - The palate can become narrow - Teeth may become crowded - The airway can become restricted # 1. THE TONGUE SUPPORTS BREATHING The tongue helps guide whether your child breathes through their: - Nose (ideal) - Mouth (compensatory) When the tongue is strong and positioned well: - It supports nasal breathing - Improves oxygen delivery - Helps with calm, regulated breathing Mouth breathing is often linked to: - Poor sleep - Behaviour and focus challenges - Fatigue and low energy - Reduced oxygen efficiency # 2. THE TONGUE WORKS WITH THE LIPS AND JAW The tongue doesn’t work alone — it is part of a system: - Tongue + lips = proper oral seal - Tongue + jaw = balanced muscle development Lip incompetence (lips staying open) can contribute to: - Changes in jaw position - Altered craniofacial development If the tongue is not functioning well: - The lips may stay open - The jaw may shift or compensate - The face can develop asymmetrically # 3. THE TONGUE AFFECTS EATING, SWALLOWING & SPEECH Good tongue function helps your child: - Chew food properly - Swallow correctly (without compensation) - Develop clear speech patterns These exercises directly support: - Swallowing mechanics - Speech clarity # 4 THE TONGUE EVEN AFFECTS POSTURE & THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

This is a simple technique you can do at home to help improve tongue mobility and reduce tension under the tongue. In this video, you’ll see a mum working on her little girl.There is a tender spot — but notice how her daughter actually draws her mum’s hand back in for more. This is really important. Even when there is some tenderness, children will often seek the input because it helps release the restriction and improve movement. How to do it: - Wash your hands thoroughly - For babies, use your little pinky finger - For older children, use your index finger - (Some parents find gently cooling the fingertip helpful) - Place one finger under the tongue inside the mouth - With your opposite hand, place a finger under the chin on the outside - Gently press the fingers toward each other, supporting the tissue between them Then: - Slowly work from one side to the other - You may feel small, pea-sized tight spots — these are areas of tension - Gently work to soften and flatten these areas - Work each side a few times using gentle downward pressure The goal is not to stretch forcefully, but simply to work through and relax the tissues under the tongue. What to expect: - If the tongue is moving freely, this usually isn’t uncomfortable - If there is restriction, the area may feel tender or sensitive This tenderness reflects tightness in the muscle layers — and is often where the most benefit can occur. Your focus: Consistency is key. Keep working gently and regularly until: - The tissue feels less tight and less sore - The tongue begins to move more freely A Gentle Reminder This kind of support is not a replacement for professional assessment, especially if there are feeding difficulties. However, understanding how the muscles under the tongue work together can help you better support your child’s feeding, oral function, and development.