Oral Motor Skills and Speech Development: What Parents in Phnom Penh Should Know

Speech development goes beyond just learning words—it starts with the strength, coordination, and control of the muscles in a child’s mouth. These are called oral motor skills, and they play a foundational role in a child’s ability to speak clearly, chew, and even swallow properly. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our speech therapy programs are designed to support these essential motor skills, especially in children who experience developmental delays or speech disorders.

What Are Oral Motor Skills?

Oral motor skills involve the use of the lips, tongue, jaw, teeth, and facial muscles to produce speech sounds. Children with weak oral motor control may:

• Struggle to pronounce certain letters like “L,” “R,” or “S”

• Drool excessively

• Have difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Avoid speaking in long sentences due to fatigue

These challenges can impact both communication and daily routines, including eating and interacting with peers.

The Connection Between Oral Motor Skills and Speech Therapy

At OrbRom Center, our trained speech therapists assess oral motor function as part of the broader language evaluation. When children display signs of underdeveloped oral motor skills, we introduce targeted exercises that strengthen their mouth and facial muscles. Some examples include:

• Blowing bubbles or whistles

• Imitating silly faces in the mirror

• Using chew tools or oral massagers

• Practicing tongue and lip movements through play

These activities not only make therapy fun but also improve articulation, reduce speech frustration, and build confidence.

Practical Tips for Parents at Home

Parents in Phnom Penh can support their child’s speech development at home with a few simple activities:

• Encourage your child to drink from straws (this strengthens cheek muscles)

• Play “copycat” games involving tongue and lip movements

• Offer crunchy snacks to promote chewing skills

• Make oral hygiene part of a fun routine to build awareness of the mouth

If you notice ongoing issues like unclear speech, frequent drooling, or frustration when trying to talk, early intervention is key.

How OrbRom Center Can Help

Located conveniently in Phnom Penh, OrbRom Center offers specialized speech therapy services for children of all ages. Our experienced team designs custom therapy plans tailored to each child’s needs, using evidence-based techniques in a supportive, child-friendly environment. Whether your child needs help with oral motor development, articulation, or overall language skills, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts
Speech development starts with the basics—and oral motor skills are a crucial part of that foundation. If you’re in Phnom Penh and want to give your child the best start in communication, the team at OrbRom Center is ready to help with professional, playful, and personalized support.