Starting out in feeding therapy can feel a little overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how to support oral motor development. If you’re a new grad occupational therapist, you’re likely juggling tons of information while trying to build confidence in your sessions. The good news? You don’t need fancy tools or complex protocols to get started.

Below are easy, low-prep oral motor exercises that you can start using right away. These activities support lip closure, tongue mobility, jaw strength, and breath control—foundational skills for safe and effective feeding.

1. Stick Out the Tongue in Front of a Mirror

Simple, but effective. Have the child stick their tongue out and watch themselves in a mirror. Make it fun! Turn it into a silly face challenge or copycat game! This helps increase awareness of tongue movement and coordination.

💡 Why it works: Encourages visual feedback and builds voluntary control of tongue movement.

2. Pretend to Blow Out a Birthday Candle

No real flame needed, just imagination! Pair this with a Squig! Place a small rolled-up piece of paper on top of the Squig and ask your child to “blow out the candle” to blow the paper off the Squig.

💡 Why it works: Great for improving breath control and lip rounding, which are essential for straw drinking and safe swallowing.

3. Blow Through a Straw to Move Paper Balls

Roll up tiny pieces of paper or use cotton balls. Place them on a flat surface and have the child blow through a straw to move them from one end of the table to the other. Add in a race or game element for fun!

💡 Why it works: Targets breath support and lip closure, while also building focus and control.

4. Blow Bubbles (Water or Wand Style)

Either blow bubbles in a cup of water using a straw or use a regular bubble wand. Kids love bubbles, and it makes for an engaging, sensory-friendly activity.

💡 Why it works: Encourages sustained exhalation and oral strength. Plus, it’s motivating and fun!

5. Lick Preferred Spread Off the Corners of the Mouth

Use a small amount of peanut butter, Nutella, honey, or any preferred spread (always verify any allergies or address sensory concerns). Place it on both corners of the child’s lips and cue them to lick it off using their tongue.

💡 Why it works: Promotes tongue lateralization—a critical skill for safe chewing and moving food across the mouth.

6. Bite Down on a Chewy Tube (Alternating Sides)

Present a chewy tube (or a similar oral motor tool) and have the child bite down. Move the chewy tube to one side, then the other, encouraging even chewing patterns on both sides of the mouth.

💡 Why it works: Helps build jaw strength and symmetry—key for developing rotary chewing.

These exercises can be incorporated into play-based therapy sessions or as part of a sensory-motor warm-up. Always ensure the child is supervised, and follow their cues for comfort and engagement. And remember—small, consistent practice makes a big difference.

If you’re just starting out in feeding therapy, don’t stress about getting it perfect. These simple oral motor activities are a great way to build your confidence while supporting essential skills in your kiddos.

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