Many parents are surprised to learn that snoring in children is not considered normal. While occasional snoring (like during a cold) can happen, regular or loud snoring may be a sign that your child is struggling to breathe well during sleep.
Snoring can be a symptom of sleep-disordered breathing, which includes conditions like obstructive sleep aponea (OSA). These can affect your child’s quality of sleep, behaviour, concentration, growth, and even their speech and feeding skills.
Our speech pathologists work with children who have difficulties related to the way their muscles, tongue, and breathing patterns work together—especially during sleep.
Why might a child snore? Some common reasons include:
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Mouth breathing habits
- Low tongue posture
- Weak oral and facial muscles
- Allergies or nasal congestion
If your child is snoring most nights, mouth breathing during sleep, waking unrefreshed, or showing signs of restlessness, it’s time to dig deeper.
An orofacial myofunctional assessment can help identify if your child has habits or muscle patterns affecting their breathing. Therapy often includes exercises to improve nasal breathing, strengthen facial muscles, and encourage proper tongue and lip posture.
We may also work closely with other professionals such as ENT specialists, dentists, or sleep physicians to create a full picture of your child’s needs.
The good news? With early identification and the right team, children can learn healthier breathing patterns and get better sleep. If your child is snoring regularly, don’t brush it off—get it checked. A well-rested child is a thriving child!
To make an appointment with our Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy clinic, reach out to the team at Inner West Paediatrics to book a consultation or learn more on (02) 9560 8905 or info@innerwestpaediatrics.com.au (or Contact Us through our website)
