The chewing is a function very important for facial and general development But unlike sucking and swallowing, it must be learned, and it is the task of parents to teach their children the correct way to do it.
To the 6 monthsThe baby is already physiologically and neurologically mature enough to start eating foods with new textures and consistencies in addition to liquids so that our children can continue to develop all the orofacial structures correctly, as well as avoiding a poorer acceptance of the variety of foods and greater difficulty in chewing.
We can therefore say that different textures of food promote the stimulation and gradual learning of chewing, which is a key factor in the development of the chewing process. stimulates muscles and the lateral movements of the jawgenerating a correct growth and bone development of the face. Avoiding in the future structural and/or dental alterations, such as: an incorrect bite, a lack of space for permanent teeth or other orthodontic problems, as well as a low oral motor skills, which can lead to alterations in the articulation of the facial muscles. language.
Some tips to apply with our children will be:
- Give them different textures so that they get used to them.
- Do not prolong the use of bottles or soothers.
- Use drinking straws to strengthen the lips so that they can use the strength to hold the straw and the sucking motion with the cheeks.
- Teach correct chewing, with the mouth closed, without sticking the tongue out and chewing with the molars, first on one side and then on the other.
