The need for oral motor stimulation goes beyond newborns and infants and continues into adulthood. How many times have you found yourself chewing on a pen or pencil while sitting in a boring meeting or popped a piece of hard candy or gum in your mouth when you are trying to stay alert. The oral motor area (the mouth) can be used very effectively to help a child with autism regulate their level of arousal. It can help organize their central nervous system to either calm or alert them.
Oral motor stimulation can be eating certain tastes of food such as sweet, salty, spicy, or sour. These food tastes are usually alerting. The texture of food is also important. Foods can be crunchy, crispy, smooth, or thick. It is beneficial to experiment with a variety of food textures and tastes to see if there is a difference in behavior. While doing homework, I will often give my son, Anthony, a crunchy, salty snack like pretzels to help him stay alert and focused.
As most of us know, there is usually a “no gum chewing in school” rule. They are now finding that that benefits the custodians more than the student. (Gum is very difficult to scrap off the bottom of desks and chairs) There is compelling research that states that chewing gum actually improves a person’s ability to concentrate and focus as well as relieve tension and stress. Chewing gum stimulates certain areas of the brain which releases neurotransmitters like serotonin. Serotonin is said to increase our self confidence and provide a sense of security. I think we should allow our children to chew gum when needed. The sugarless kind, of course.
Kimberly Wragge http:www.kimsautismawareness.com
