TalkTools

Summary: TalkTools is a company that offers courses and tools related to speech therapy, feeding therapy, and oral motor exercises. There are mixed opinions on the effectiveness and evidence-based nature of TalkTools, with some users finding it beneficial for feeding therapy, while others criticize it for promoting oral motor speech exercises not supported by research.

Pros:

• Some users find TalkTools useful for feeding therapy.
• Can provide education on general feeding/oral-motor sensory theories.
• Offers tools that may help with oral awareness and aversions in children.
• Can be beneficial for oral prep dysphagia.

Cons:

• Criticized for promoting oral motor speech exercises not supported by research.
• Lack of third-party evidence supporting the necessity of their specific tools.
• Some view it as a "money grab" due to the need to purchase specific tools.
• Not seen as evidence-based practice by some professionals.
• Mixed feedback on the effectiveness of NSOMEs (Non-Speech Oral Motor Exercises).

Quotes from Reddit:

• “They have some useful tools for feeding, I don't tend to use them strictly in the way they are intended though.”
• “I’m under the impression this company promotes oral motor speech exercises which is not supported by research to help improve speech production.”
• “My supervisor uses TalkTools and it's... Interesting. I can see it being used for oral prep dysphagia but that's it. Using it for articulation is too far for me.”

Additional Comments:

• Some users caution against forcing therapeutic activities that strain relationships, recommending a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
• There are suggestions to seek out certified professionals and resources specializing in pediatric feeding, such as the SOS Feeding certification.
• The effectiveness of TalkTools in transitioning from non-verbal to verbal communication is debated among users, with concerns raised about the course content and instructor qualifications.

Remember to always consult with professionals and refer to evidence-based practices when considering speech therapy tools and techniques.