Oral Placement Therapy at Divine Deeds

What is Oral Placement Therapy (OPT)?

Oral Placement Therapy is a beneficial therapy that focuses on strengthening oral muscles responsible for taking care of one’s speech, eating, and overall oral motor function. At Divine Deeds, we use fun, engaging exercises to help children improve their muscle coordination for clearer speech and safer, more effective eating. Through tailored activities, we focus on movements and positioning of the lips, tongue, and jaw, giving children the control needed for better articulation and functional eating skills.

Why Choose Oral Placement Therapy?

OPT is essential for children who face speech clarity and oral motor control challenges, particularly those with difficulty controlling mouth movements or producing specific sounds needed for effective communication. We aim to improve their oral muscle strength, which would further help children speak more clearly, chew and swallow safely, and feel more confident in social settings. At Divine Deeds, we focus on each child’s unique needs and provide the tools they need to communicate and eat comfortably.

Common Oral Motor Issues that Children Face

Children may face various oral motor issues that affect speech and eating skills.

Here are some common issues:

  • Weak Oral Muscles – Difficulty controlling lips, tongue, and jaw movements.
  • Drooling – Poor control of saliva due to low muscle tone.
  • Oral Aversion – Discomfort or refusal to eat certain textures.
  • Feeding Difficulties – Challenges with chewing or swallowing.
  • Speech Sound Disorders – Difficulty pronouncing sounds due to muscle weakness.

Our Role

At Divine Deeds, we see ourselves as the ladders of development who aim to guide children through structured exercises that target key oral motor skills. We strengthen and coordinate the muscles needed for speech and feeding, using tools and activities that engage the child in a positive, supportive environment. Our team collaborates with parents to reinforce exercises at home and incorporate these skills into daily routines. Focusing on patience, practice, and positive reinforcement, we help children develop essential skills that enhance communication and eating abilities.

Who Needs Oral Placement Therapy?

Oral Placement Therapy is ideal for children who struggle with oral motor skills needed for speech or feeding. Your child may benefit from OPT if they:

  • Have weak muscle control in the lips, tongue, or jaw.
  • Experience drooling or other saliva control issues.
  • Struggle with chewing or swallowing certain foods.
  • Avoid foods of certain textures or show discomfort with eating.
  • Have difficulty producing specific speech sounds clearly.

How Long Will Your Child Need Oral Placement Therapy?

The duration of Oral Placement Therapy (OPT) for a child is influenced by various factors, including the type and severity of their oral motor issues, the consistency of their practice and therapy, their age and developmental readiness, as well as the level of family involvement and support for practice at home. Each child’s needs and progress are unique, making the length of time required for OPT vary from one individual to another.

The Divine Deeds Effect

At Divine Deeds, we’re dedicated to helping children develop essential oral motor skills that lead to clearer speech and more confident eating. Our team works closely with each family, tailoring therapy to meet your child’s unique needs and goals. Through consistent practice and a collaborative approach, we enable children to overcome oral motor challenges, supporting their growth in all areas of life.