What Does Therapy Look Like for Kids Under 2?

I received a question about how I do therapy with infants and toddlers under the age of 2. Well, first, it’s a lot of fun!

Primarily with babies and kids this young we’re focusing on feeding therapy, but it’s also a lot of play therapy. When I work with littles we are on the floor, singing, crawling, imitating big motor movements and little motor movements. It also helps when you start more on the periphery instead of going straight to working with the mouth, we want to make sure therapy is a positive experience. 

Once they’re ready for myo exercises I like to utilize some of my SLP tools like chewy tubs and oral vibrators, which stimulate that coordination and the movements of the mouth. Kids love to play, and so we make sure that we’re being silly and having fun while we work. A lot of kids can be afraid of different inputs into the mouth, so addressing that sensory component is important. 

I also make sure to equip the rest of the family with the knowledge and skills they’re going to need to do therapy at home. When parents know how to support their kids it really empowers them - I want you to know how to help your own kids because you’re their biggest cheerleaders! Practicing at home, just like acquiring any new skill, is really going to help you make the progress you’re seeking.

You’ve got this - let’s go make some Myo Magic!