Why is a straw cup better than a spouted cup?
If you were to walk through the aisles of Target or Wal-Mart, you might not think twice about the various cups available for your child. You wouldn’t be the first person to choose a cup based on color, pattern, or functionality (no spills!).
But did you know that a straw cup is often considered a better option than a spouted cup?
Oral development. Using a straw cup promotes the development of oral motor skills. Sucking from a straw requires a more coordinated and controlled movement of the tongue and lips, which can help strengthen the muscles involved in speech and feeding.
Transition to an open cup. Drinking from a straw cup can serve as a transitional step toward drinking from an open cup. It helps children develop the necessary oral motor skills and coordination required for drinking without a lit or spout.
Dental health. Sucking on a spouted cup can lead to prolonged contact of liquid with the front teeth, potentially increasing the risk of tooth decay and dental issues. Drinking from a straw cup, on the other hand, allows the liquid to bypass the front teeth, reducing the exposure to sugars and acids that can contribute to dental problems.
Speech development. Using a straw cup encourages proper tongue and lip placement, promoting speech development. It helps children learn to coordinate their oral movements, improving their ability to articulate sounds and words.
Hydration control. Drinking from a straw cup typically requires a more deliberate effort from the child, allowing for better control over the rate of liquid intake. This can be beneficial for children who tend to gulp or drink too quickly, helping them pace their drinking and avoid potential choking or overconsumption.