The Mouth With a Mind of Its Own
Updated: Aug 25
"Matthew has a problem. His brain thinks one thing, but his mouth says another! He can't participate in class discussions. He can't ask for a snack. He can't even say his own name! Then Matthew meets the school speech therapist..."
Buy the book on Amazon here
Speech therapist Pat Mervine created Matthew who has a really hard time talking. He knows what he wants to say but the words always come out very mixed up. In this book you and your child will go to school with Matthew who has a very hard time when he tries to say something to his teacher or classmates. It's funny and lighthearted, but shows how Matthew makes a huge effort to work on or his speech This book is also an easy way to start a conversation with your school aged child about speech therapy or to talk about a sibling or friend who might be in seeing a therapist.
Buy the book on Amazon here
This book is great for school age kids with Apraxia of Speech who might be in speech therapy or for those who are about to start and don't know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when someone says a child's mouth has a mind of its own?
This phrase describes when a person struggles to control the movements of their mouth, lips, or tongue during speech, even though they know exactly what they want to say. It often points to a motor speech disorder like childhood apraxia of speech or dysarthria. A licensed speech-language pathologist can assess what is happening and create a targeted treatment plan.
How do I know if my child needs speech therapy for mouth movement problems?
Watch for signs like inconsistent errors on the same sounds, difficulty coordinating lips and tongue during speech, or speech that sounds clearer when your child slows down. If you notice these patterns regularly, it is worth getting a professional evaluation. Early intervention tends to produce the best outcomes, so acting sooner rather than later makes a real difference.
Can adults also experience uncontrolled mouth movements that affect speech?
Absolutely. Adults can develop motor speech difficulties after a stroke, brain injury, or neurological diagnosis such as Parkinson's disease or ALS. The mouth muscles may feel uncooperative, making speech slurred, slow, or effortful. Speech therapy with a licensed clinician can target the specific movement breakdowns and help rebuild clearer, more confident communication.
Are there exercises families can do at home to help with mouth movement during speech?
Yes, though it is important that a speech-language pathologist first identifies the root cause, since exercises vary widely depending on the diagnosis. Once you have a plan, consistent short practice sessions at home between appointments are very effective. Better Speech connects families with licensed clinicians online who can guide home practice, accept most insurance plans, and get you started without a long waitlist.
How long does it usually take to see improvement in motor speech issues?
Progress timelines vary based on the cause, severity, and how consistently therapy is practiced. Many families notice meaningful improvement within a few months of regular, targeted sessions. Children with apraxia often need longer-term support, while some adults recovering from stroke can see rapid gains with intensive practice. Setting realistic goals with your clinician helps everyone stay motivated along the way.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
