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