Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in Lafayette
What Orofacial Myofunctional Challenges Look Like in Kids
Orofacial myofunctional issues involve how the tongue, lips, cheeks, and facial muscles work together. When these muscles don’t function in a coordinated way, children may breathe through their mouths, struggle to keep their lips closed, push their tongue forward when swallowing, or have difficulty chewing effectively. These patterns can affect speech clarity, feeding skills, dental development, and even sleep and breathing habits. Early support helps children develop healthier, more efficient oral habits.
Our Therapy Process
At Hope Therapy Center in Lafayette, we guide children through gentle, developmentally appropriate activities that strengthen the muscles of the face and mouth. Therapy focuses on improving tongue posture, nasal breathing, lip strength, chewing patterns, and overall oral coordination. Younger children learn through fun, playful exercises, while older kids participate in structured activities that build awareness and control. We also give parents practical exercises to use at home, helping new habits become part of daily routines. Our goal is to support strong oral function that improves speech, feeding, and long-term development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are common signs my child may need myofunctional therapy?
A: Signs include mouth breathing, tongue thrust, open-mouth posture, difficulty chewing, drooling, or trouble keeping the tongue resting in the right place.
Q: Can myofunctional therapy help with speech clarity?
A: Yes. Improving muscle coordination and tongue posture can support clearer articulation and improve overall speech patterns.
Q: How long does this type of therapy take?
A: Each child progresses at their own pace. Consistent practice at home helps build strong, lasting habits more quickly.
Q: Will my child have exercises to do between sessions?
A: Yes. Home practice is a key part of therapy and helps children maintain new muscle patterns throughout the day.
Help Your Child Build Healthy Oral Habits
If your child struggles with chewing, tongue posture, mouth breathing, or oral-motor coordination, early support can make a meaningful difference.
Contact Hope Therapy Center in Lafayette today to schedule an evaluation and help your child develop stronger, healthier oral function.
Sarah has been a Godsend for both of our boys, especially our 3 year old! Meal time is no longer stressful and his speech is so much better. We cannot recommend her enough!
Steven aguillard
I can’t say enough good things about our experience with Mrs. Sarah Tate! As a new mom, I was really struggling with my baby’s latch during breastfeeding, and it was starting to feel overwhelming. Mrs. Sarah not only helped us improve the latch significantly, but also identified and gently worked on my baby’s tight facial muscles, which made such a difference in feeding and overall comfort. She was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. I felt truly seen and heard, and she took the time to explain everything in a way that was easy to understand. Her care has had a lasting positive impact on our breastfeeding journey, and I’m so grateful for her expertise and compassion. If you’re a parent needing support with infant feeding or oral motor issues, I highly recommend working with Mrs. Sarah Tate at Hope Therapy Lafayette —she’s truly amazing!
hannah morel