03/16/2026
Ever notice your child sticking their tongue out when they write, color, or focus really hard?
It might look silly, but it actually tells us something important about how their brain and body are working together.
When kids stick their tongue out during fine motor tasks, it’s often because their body is recruiting extra muscles to help with stability and coordination.
Here’s why it happens:
🩵 Motor overflow
The tongue and hand share nearby areas in the brain. When a task is challenging, the brain “recruits extra help,” and the tongue moves along with the hand.
🩵 Postural stability
If the core and shoulder muscles aren’t fully stable yet, kids use their tongue and face muscles to help create overall body tension for control.
🩵 Developing motor control
This is common in younger children and those still refining coordination, strength, and postural control.
🩵 Extra concentration
Sticking the tongue out can help increase focus and precision during detailed tasks.
As physical therapists, we don’t focus on the tongue itself. We focus on improving:
• Core strength
• Shoulder stability
• Postural control
• Coordination
When the body becomes more stable, the tongue doesn’t need to help anymore.
If you notice this often, it’s not something to panic about but it can be a sign your child’s motor system is still developing and may benefit from support.
Save this if your child does this 👅
Share with another parent
⚠️Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or qualified healthcare provider with concerns.
