From First Bites to First Words: How our Adventurous Eaters class Supports Speech Development

When we think about helping children learn to speak, we often picture story time, songs, and first conversations — but one of the most powerful tools for speech development actually starts at the table. The muscles your child uses to chew, swallow, and explore new foods are the same muscles they’ll later rely on to form words, control breath, and articulate sounds clearly.

Oral Development: The Foundation for Speech

Before a child can pronounce “banana,” they first need to chew one! The jaw, tongue, and lips all play essential roles in both eating and speaking.

For example:

• Chewing strengthens jaw muscles that support speech sounds like /m/, /b/, and /p/.

• Tongue movement helps children learn to shift and control placement for sounds like /l/, /t/, and /d/.

• Lip closure and control—developed by activities like drinking from a straw or blowing—assist with articulation and breath support.

Each new food texture or eating challenge offers a mini “workout” for these muscles. That’s why sensory-rich food experiences—like crunching, licking, sipping, and exploring a variety of textures—play such a key role in oral motor growth.

Why Adventurous Eating Matters

Compass Learning Adventure's Adventurous Eaters class encourages curiosity. When children explore a rainbow of foods—sweet, sour, smooth, and crunchy—they’re building confidence and coordination in their mouths. 

They also gain exposure to smells and textures that help desensitize oral aversions, making it easier to accept toothbrushes, utensils, and even speech therapy tools later on.

From the High Chair to the Conversation Table

When mealtimes become moments of exploration, they set the stage for communication. Every “yum,” “no thank you,” or silly food sound is a chance for connection and language growth.

Parents can model descriptive language (“That carrot is crunchy!”), encourage imitation, and turn eating into a multi-sensory learning experience.

So next time your little one is experimenting with a new flavor or texture, remember — they’re not just developing their palate, they’re building the foundation for strong speech, confident communication, and a lifelong love of learning.

Join Compass Baby Adventurous Eaters Classes in November and help your child build the oral motor and sensory skills that support confident speaking — all through playful, hands-on food exploration.

When: Every Wednesday

Perfect for little learners ready to explore textures, tastes, and talk!

Book your classes here

We look forward to seeing you at our classes!

Best,

Jordanna