The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast

Have you ever wondered why your child just can’t seem to sit still, focus, or follow directions—no matter how hard they try? In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on when kids struggle with restlessness, hyperactivity, or behavior that often gets dismissed as “just a phase.” Spoiler alert—it’s not about being defiant. Instead, it may be your child’s body signaling something deeper, especially when it comes to breathing and sleep. I’ll share my own journey as both a mom and a provider, uncovering the surprising connection between airway health, oxygen, and behavior. From bedwetting and restless nights to emotional meltdowns and focus issues, I’ll explain how these seemingly separate challenges often tie back to sleep and breathing. And most importantly, I’ll give you practical steps and questions you can ask to start connecting the dots for your own child. Remember, when your child can’t sit still, it’s not always about behavior—it could be about breathing. You have the power to be the detective who connects the dots. If this episode opened your eyes or reminded you to trust your instincts, please share it with another mom or caregiver who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast—it helps us reach and support more families just like yours. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Have you ever walked out of a pediatrician’s office or a parent-teacher conference feeling unheard, dismissed, or even a little ashamed for asking questions? You’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for noticing the things you notice about your child. In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I share practical ways to advocate for your child calmly and confidently, even when you feel brushed off by professionals. We’ll talk about why providers and teachers sometimes miss the clues you’re seeing, how to prepare before your next appointment or meeting, and the exact phrases you can use to keep the conversation clear, respectful, and productive. You’ll walk away with tools to help you feel grounded, heard, and empowered as your child’s strongest advocate. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Birth to five is the most important stage of a child’s life yet it’s often overlooked in healthcare and education. In this episode of the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with Ashonti Jackson, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois, to explore how this statewide initiative is closing gaps in care, building stronger communities, and making sure every child has access to the resources they need. We dive into how Birth to Five Illinois is driven by community voices, why access and awareness are critical for families, and the innovative steps being taken across Illinois to address early childhood needs holistically. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community advocate, this conversation will open your eyes to the importance of early intervention and remind you that you’re not alone on this journey. Timeline Summary [2:12] – Introducing Birth to Five Illinois and why the early years matter so much[6:45] – How regional offices are tailored to meet the unique needs of each community[12:30] – The importance of access and awareness for families navigating services[18:55] – Tackling behavior and expulsion challenges through social-emotional learning[25:40] – Why community voice is at the heart of every decision Birth to Five Illinois makes[33:10] – Addressing healthcare gaps, food deserts, and housing instability in Illinois[45:22] – How families and stakeholders can get involved through councils and storytelling Links & ResourcesBirth to Five Illinois: www.birthtofiveil.comEarly Childhood Resource Hub (housed at Oak Lawn Children’s Museum): Oak Lawn Children’s Museum Resource HubConnect with Ashonti Jackson: ajackson@birthtofiveil.com If this episode inspired you or gave you new insights, please share it with a friend who could benefit. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast so we can continue spreading knowledge and resources to families everywhere. And remember trust your instincts, advocate for your child, and know you’re never alone. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academyBook a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

September feels like a second New Year new routines, new beginnings, and often, new stress. In this episode, we go beyond backpacks and lunchboxes to explore what kids really need as they head back to school: structure, sleep, breathing, and even chewing. Yes, chewing! Discover why this overlooked habit is a powerful developmental tool that impacts focus, behavior, sleep, and emotional regulation. You’ll hear a powerful story of a 6-year-old whose focus, speech, and sleep improved dramatically just from introducing more chewing and tongue exercises into her routine. We’ll also cover four practical shifts families can make right now to ease the transition into the school year and set kids up for long-term success. Links & ResourcesBook a free 15-minute call with me → https://shereewertz.com/15-minLearn more about The Shift Method & Founding Membership (lifetime access for $197, use code lifetime) → https://shereewertz.com/academy

Today’s episode is a very personal one—a tribute to my dad on his birthday and a wake-up call for every parent navigating today’s system. My dad’s story is powerful, heartbreaking, and filled with lessons we all need to hear. Through his life and his passing, I’ve come to see how often real symptoms are dismissed, families are brushed off, and opportunities for healing are missed. In this conversation, I share my dad’s journey, what it taught me about listening deeper, and why it’s so important to trust our instincts as parents. We’ll also talk about how our thoughts shape our reality, the way old programming holds us back, and how we can rewire our minds—and our children’s—for a better future. This isn’t just my dad’s story; it’s a message for every parent, every child, and every family who’s ever felt unseen. Links & ResourcesBook a free 15-minute call with me → https://shereewertz.com/15-minLearn more about The Shift Method & Founding Membership (lifetime access for $197, use code lifetime) → https://shereewertz.com/academy

Have you ever noticed little signs that something might be off with your child—snoring, grinding, meltdowns, bedwetting, food struggles, or emotional overwhelm—and wondered, what do I do next? In this episode, I’m diving deeper into how to respond when you spot these red flags, without rushing to quick fixes or diagnoses. Instead, I’ll show you how to tune in, track what’s happening, and begin making small, intentional shifts that can transform your child’s health and well-being. We’ll talk about why tracking patterns matters, how simple habits like nasal breathing, food swaps, and bedtime routines can create huge changes, and how to see behaviors not as “problems” but as signals from your child’s body and nervous system. If you’ve ever felt brushed off or unsure where to start, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for moving forward. I’ve created The Shift Method—a complete roadmap designed to help you understand red flags at every stage of your child’s development (from birth through early childhood). Right now, I’m offering Founding Member Lifetime Access for just $197. Use the code LIFETIME at checkout to lock in this one-time price -- https://shereewertz.com/academy If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another parent who might need to hear it. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and leave a review so we can continue spreading awareness and support. And as always—breathe through your nose and share a smile. Dental Hygiene 411 – Join our community on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dh411

After last week’s episode, I heard from so many of you with the same question: “Okay… but what can I actually do at home?” In this episode, I’m diving deep into the practical, everyday steps you can take to help your child regulate their body, protect their energy, and build a strong biological foundation for lifelong health—starting right in your own home. We’ll talk about why true change begins with you, how your breathing and daily habits set the tone for your child, and how simple, consistent actions can prevent bigger issues later on. I share my personal journey—missteps, breakthroughs, and all—plus the tools and mindset shifts that can make a world of difference for both you and your child. Timeline Highlights [2:14] – Why real change doesn’t start in a clinic—it starts at home.[7:02] – Understanding deregulation and how your child’s behavior is actually biofeedback.[14:38] – The role of breathing, hydration, and sleep in emotional and physical regulation.[20:55] – My own parenting lessons from years of meltdowns, sleep deprivation, and sensory issues.[27:18] – How toxins affect nutrient absorption and what testing can reveal.[34:40] – Shifting from fear and force to presence and permission in parenting.[42:12] – The importance of oral function, myofunctional therapy, and early intervention. Links & ResourcesFounders Lifetime Access Course – Use code lifetime for the first 50 families at $197.Dental Hygiene 411 – Join our community on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dh411 Learn more about the SHIFT Method Program: https://www.shereewertz.com/ Mentioned experts: Dr. Kelly Shockley – Chiropractor & “Doctor of Cause”Melissa Dealy – Guided health journey & toxin education If you enjoyed today’s episode, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow the podcast. Share it with another parent who’s ready to make positive changes at home—because regulated moms raise resilient kids. And remember… breathe through your nose and share a smile.

Have you ever felt like your child has been labeled without anyone truly understanding what’s going on underneath the surface? In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of what happens when schools overlook critical biological factors that affect our children’s behavior, mood, and learning. From sleep deprivation to nervous system deregulation, I share stories of misunderstood kids—and what we can do differently. I invite you to pause before jumping into another evaluation or diagnosis. What if your child doesn’t need a new label, but more support? You’ll learn how the body’s signals often get dismissed, how airway and sleep issues play a massive role, and how we as parents can advocate for lasting change by shifting our lens and trusting our instincts. Timeline Summary[1:15] – Shifting the narrative from behavior to biology: Why your child might not need another diagnosis[3:45] – A real-life case of a misjudged child and how tongue restriction and sleep deprivation played a hidden role[7:50] – The harm of mislabeling kids and how private schools often avoid accountability[10:35] – What schools miss when they don’t understand nervous system regulation[13:22] – Signs your child’s body may be in distress: what to observe beyond behavior[18:10] – Simple regulation tools for parents: nasal breathing, hydration, protein intake, and movement[21:05] – You are your child’s chief regulating officer: modeling and co-regulation[24:00] – Why labels don’t help the nervous system—but inputs do[27:15] – The importance of advocating early and shifting the system through awareness Links & ResourcesLearn more about the SHIFT Method Program:  https://www.shereewertz.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dh411Get O.W.N.E.R The Mond Mouth Body Connection Book  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966798059If this episode gave you a new perspective, please consider rating, reviewing, and sharing it with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s shift the lens together and make sure our kids are seen, understood, and supported—not just labeled. Until next time, remember to breathe through your nose and share a smile. They're contagious.    

In today’s episode, I’m diving into something that can change the game for your child's health—and yours too—the OWNER Code. This simple yet powerful five-part framework can help prevent unnecessary labels and provide the regulation support your child’s body desperately needs. If your child struggles with anxiety, sleep issues, meltdowns, or sensory overload, it might not be dysfunction—it might be a missing piece in their foundation. We’ll explore how oxygen, water, nutrition, enough sleep, and respecting the one body we get all play a crucial role in a child’s well-being. You’ll learn how everyday choices affect your child’s nervous system, why nasal breathing can transform behavior, how water quality impacts more than hydration, and why processed foods may be causing more issues than we realize. Most importantly, we talk about trusting your instincts and empowering your children to listen to their own bodies. Links & ResourcesLearn more about the SHIFT Method Program:  https://www.shereewertz.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dh411Get O.W.N.E.R The Mond Mouth Body Connection Book  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966798059 Let’s keep changing lives together. If this episode made you think, feel, or smile, please share it with a friend who needs it. Rate, review, and follow the podcast—every bit of love helps us grow and empower more families. And don’t forget: breathe through your nose and share a smile. They’re contagious!

Have you ever been told to “wait and see” or that you were just overthinking something about your child? In this deeply personal episode, I share why those gut feelings we have as moms are often spot-on—and why trusting them can make all the difference. I open up about my own experiences with being dismissed, even by professionals close to me, and how I finally learned to lead with intuition, not hesitation. We explore why our instincts matter more than we think, especially when it comes to breathing, sleep, nutrition, and behavior in our kids. You’ll learn how small signs—often overlooked—can be early indicators of deeper issues, and how you, as a parent, have the power to create change before crisis strikes. Let this episode empower you to trust yourself and be the advocate your child needs. Links & Resources: Join the Shift Circle: Shift Circle Membership -- https://shereewertz.com/academyLearn more about the Shift Method and early intervention -- https://www.dentalhygiene411.com If this episode made you feel seen, sparked a new thought, or helped you trust yourself a little more, please share it with a fellow parent who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes and tag us while you listen—your support helps us reach and empower more families. Until next time, breathe through your nose and share a smile—after all, they’re contagious.  

Think your child’s mouth is just for brushing and eating? Think again! In this eye-opening episode, we uncover how your child’s mouth is secretly linked to their sleep, behavior, mood, and even learning. You’ll learn:-Why mouth breathing is more than just a bad habit-Sneaky signs that your child’s nervous system might be stressed-How tongue posture and chewing impact development-Simple, powerful things you can do right now to support your child-Why “wait and see” might be the worst advice you’ve been given Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy 

Think your child’s behavior is the problem? Think again. In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on under the surface—and why your child’s meltdowns, hyperactivity, or big emotions might be signs of a dysregulated nervous system, not bad behavior. You’ll learn:-Why behavior is actually a form of communication-How to spot signs of nervous system dysregulation-What sleep, breathing, hydration, and nutrition have to do with it-Simple ways to help your child (and yourself) feel more calm and in control Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min 

Is your child lazy… or just exhausted? In this episode, we bust open the myths around “lazy” or “hyperactive” kids and shine a light on what’s really going on: nervous system stress, poor sleep, and mouth breathing. If your child is zoning out, bouncing off the walls, or constantly cranky — this is for you. Here’s what we unpack:-Why labels like “lazy” or “disruptive” often miss the mark-The top 3 hidden energy drainers in kids (hint: it starts with sleep!)-How breathing, posture, and nutrition are all connected-What bedtime signs to look for (and what they might really mean)-Simple ways to start supporting your child’s nervous system today Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this heartfelt episode, we open up about the challenges many parents face when raising a highly sensitive child. We’ve all been there: the meltdowns over itchy tags, the wrong spoon, or overwhelming smells. At first glance, these reactions seem like "over-sensitivity" or behavioral issues—but as we dig deeper, we uncover a different story. We explore how much of this sensitivity actually stems from nervous system dysregulation, often linked to breathing patterns, poor sleep, and even oral tension. Mouth breathing, for example, not only dries tissues but disrupts oxygen intake, sleep rhythms, and the body's ability to regulate emotions and sensory input. We share personal stories, like Ellie's, where simple interventions—breathing retraining, myofunctional therapy, and sleep support—led to profound shifts in behavior and well-being. One key takeaway? Sensitivity isn't a flaw. It's the body's way of signaling overwhelm. Instead of asking, "How do I fix my child’s behavior?" we shift to asking, "Why does their world feel so overwhelming?" This change in perspective opens doors to real, supportive interventions rather than judgment or blame. We also discuss how common misdiagnoses like ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety might actually be the symptoms of deeper physiological imbalances. And yes—sometimes what looks like defiance is really just depletion. At the end of the day, we remind ourselves (and you) that we’re not failing. We’re learning. We’re discovering tools, therapies, and insights that help our children not only survive but thrive. Join us as we continue to explore these critical conversations. And remember—you are your child’s best advocate. You’re doing better than you think. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode, I dove deep into one of the most important conversations I think we’ve had yet: the silent link between airway health, behavior, and attention struggles in children. We explored the idea that many kids who are labeled with ADHD might actually be suffering from something entirely different—and often overlooked—airway dysfunction. Let me be clear—ADHD is real, but we need to ask better questions. We need to look at why so many kids are dysregulated, tired, chewing their sleeves, struggling to focus, or melting down over the tiniest things. The culprit? Often it’s mouth breathing, poor tongue posture, and disrupted sleep, which can mimic or even worsen ADHD symptoms. We talked about how the position of the tongue, sleep quality, and oxygen flow all affect the nervous system, digestion, and brain function. Kids like Luca, who was misdiagnosed and medicated for ADHD, showed remarkable changes once we addressed his airway health. No magic—just science and compassion. I also shared red flags to look for:-Mouth breathing (especially at night)-Snoring, grinding, or night terrors-Waking up tired despite a full night’s sleep-Constant chewing (clothes, pencils)-Tiptoe walking-Emotional volatility and quick meltdowns If this sounds like your child—or a child you know—it’s not about blame. It’s about awareness and action. Labels like ADHD can follow a child for life. But if we shift our lens and ask better questions, we might be able to change the entire trajectory of their future. I also invited listeners to download my 10 Red Flags Checklist, join the Shift Circle, and stay connected via my newsletter. We’re building a community where we can talk candidly about what’s really going on without being dismissed or gaslit. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement, we get real about something many parents sense but can’t quite name: when a child’s behavior is actually a reflection of their biology. We talk about how signs like meltdowns, toe walking, chewing on everything, sleep issues, and poor posture might not be “just a phase” or even ADHD—they might be the result of a nervous system stuck in survival mode. We open up about our own parenting missteps and discoveries (hey, no judgment—we’ve all been there) and share the red flags we wish someone had pointed out earlier. From mouth breathing and tethered oral tissues to overlooked conditions like POTS, PANDAS, and EDS, this episode connects the dots between the mouth, the nervous system, and your child’s overall regulation. Key Takeaways:-Behavior is biology. What looks like defiance might be your child’s nervous system screaming for help.-The mouth tells a story. Chronic mouth breathing, low tongue posture, and poor sleep are often the first clues.-It’s more common than we think. Conditions like POTS and PANDAS are often misdiagnosed or missed entirely.-Small shifts = big impact. We talk about tools like nasal breathing exercises, crunchy foods, craniosacral therapy, and myofunctional work that can help bring your child’s body back to safety and balance.-Be the advocate. No one knows your child like you do. If no one is asking the right questions, you can—and should—start doing so. If your child struggles with focus, emotions, sleep, or sensory overload, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Let’s stop guessing and start seeing. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min 

In this episode, I shared a deeply personal and eye-opening conversation about something so many of us moms instinctively feel... What if our kids' struggles aren’t “just a phase”? We started with a real story — a boy named Max whose challenges with sleep, focus, and mood were brushed off as “normal” or labeled as ADHD. But something didn’t sit right with his mom. And honestly? I’ve been there too. This episode is all about trusting that gut feeling and starting to look beneath the surface. We dove into early warning signs that often get missed — like mouth breathing, restless sleep, picky eating, bedwetting, and poor focus. These aren't just quirks; they can be biological red flags pointing to airway issues, nervous system dysregulation, and poor tongue posture. I broke down the basics of my SHIFT Method — a clear, functional approach that helps parents spot these signs early and take meaningful action. Some of the big takeaways? -Common doesn’t mean normal.-Picky eating, tantrums, and even bedwetting can be rooted in biological function, not behavior.-Breathing through the nose (not the mouth) is foundational for sleep, mood, and brain development.-Small changes like introducing chewy foods, watching how our kids breathe when they sleep, and practicing box breathing can create powerful shifts.-We’re not just caring for teeth — we’re supporting growing nervous systems, airways, and whole bodies. And most importantly: You're not late. You're not crazy. You're just early to the truth. If you're thinking, “Wait… this might be my kid,” then this episode is for you. I also shared ways to go deeper — like downloading the free 10 Red Flags Checklist, joining the newsletter, and stepping into our private Shift Circle community. Let’s stop waiting for someone else to connect the dots — we can lead this change. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode, we shift from awareness to action as part of Mouth Breathing Awareness Month. Up to now, we’ve talked a lot about the “what” — mouth breathing, shrinking faces, chaotic brains — but today, we’re diving into the “how.” What can we actually do at home to support our kids’ development, even if our healthcare providers aren’t quite on board yet? We get super practical with tools, habits, and mindset shifts that make a massive difference in your child’s airway health, jaw growth, brain development, and even behavior — and the best part is, you can start today, right in your own kitchen. Key Takeaways: -Chewing is powerful. We’re not just talking about eating — we’re talking about building strong faces and functional airways. Crunchy, chewy foods like carrots, apples, jerky, and sourdough bread are your new best friends. Even playful tools like myo-munchies or frozen chew toys can be game-changers.-Mouth breathing affects everything. From sleep and posture to emotional regulation and digestion — if your child is mouth breathing, it’s time to pay attention. We share easy, fun exercises to promote nose breathing and tongue posture (think cotton ball games and “lips-zipped” challenges).-The tongue is a hidden superhero. Where it rests changes how the jaw and face grow. We talk tongue position, fun tricks to build strength, and how to tell if there might be a bigger issue at play.- Nutrition matters. Your child’s jaw and airway need building blocks: vitamins D, K2, magnesium, and zinc. We talk simple swaps and nutrient-rich foods even picky eaters can manage.- This isn’t just about kids — it’s generational. These habits (and dysfunctions) are often passed down. That means we, as parents, have the power to heal both backward and forward. How cool is that?- Brush, floss, and... chew. Oral hygiene matters, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. The bigger picture? How we chew, how we breathe, and how we live. "Your child isn’t broken. You’re not too late. And it all starts with small steps — one crunchy carrot, one deeper breath, one mindful moment at a time." We hope this episode inspires you to take action, trust your gut, and see your child (and yourself) through a whole new lens. Let’s grow strong, together. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Hey friends! In this episode, we dove deep into a topic that’s as eye-opening as it is jaw-dropping (pun totally intended 😄): why our kids’ faces are literally shrinking — and what it has to do with chewing, breathing, and brain development. Here’s the truth: crooked teeth and narrow jaws aren't just cosmetic issues — they’re signals. Signals of disrupted airway health, underdeveloped facial muscles, and even poor neurological development. I shared what I’ve learned from experts like Dr. Kevin Boyd, who explains that by age seven, 80% of the craniofacial structure is already formed. And if we wait until middle school to intervene? We've already missed a crucial window. We explored how today’s soft, pouch-filled diets — plus mouth breathing and reduced oral motor activity — are affecting jaw growth and the brain. Our ancestors chewed for hours a day. Now? We’re lucky if our kids chew for one. The result? Smaller airways, sleep-disordered breathing, behavior challenges, and more. Key takeaways:-Mouth breathing reduces brain oxygen by up to 18%.-Chewing is neurological — it stimulates brain development and regulates the nervous system.-Picky eating, speech delays, bedwetting, and constant chewing (on hair, shirts, etc.) can be signs of oral dysfunction.-Form follows function: less chewing = weaker jaw muscles = developmental consequences. We talked about practical things you can do right now:-Bring back hard, chewable foods (think jerky, carrots, dried fruits).-Make chewing fun with games and tools like the MyoMunchie.-Check your child’s nighttime breathing — snoring and mouth breathing aren’t just quirks, they’re clues.-Observe posture, tongue placement, and behavior for subtle red flags. Most importantly, I shared my own journey — how I used to misinterpret my daughter’s challenges as “bad behavior” until I learned it was actually sensory and oral motor-related. The takeaway? You don’t need to be a specialist — you just need to be curious. Awareness is everything. Our kids aren’t broken. They’re adapting. And we can support their growth with small, powerful shifts at home. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min   

In this episode, we took a deep breath—literally—and talked about something we all tend to overlook: mouth breathing in kids. It's not just a quirky habit or something they'll "outgrow." It’s often the very first red flag that the body is struggling, and if we don't catch it early, it can quietly snowball into sleep issues, behavioral problems, and even developmental delays. We started by diving into how disconnected our healthcare system is—dentists look at teeth, pediatricians look at growth, ENTs look at infections—but no one is zooming out to ask: How are they breathing? Is their tongue resting correctly? Are their lips closed at rest? Then we explored three major truths that most providers don’t talk about: We don’t screen the mouth like it matters—things like tongue posture, tethered oral tissues, and lip strength get missed. The body compensates until it can’t—kids may seem “fine,” but mouth breathing, poor sleep, and behavioral struggles are often signs of a deeper dysfunction. No one provider has the full picture—which means we as parents have to become the connectors and advocates. I got personal about my own daughter’s journey—how I missed these signs despite working in dentistry—and how that heartbreak turned into purpose. That’s why I created the SHIFT Method: a roadmap for parents to spot red flags early, ask better questions, and take action before it becomes a crisis. We wrapped up with a call to action: it’s time to stop waiting for diagnoses and start listening to the body’s signals. Tantrums, snoring, picky eating—these aren’t random quirks. They’re clues. And when we shift our perspective, everything else can shift too. Key Takeaways: -Mouth breathing reduces oxygen intake by 18% during sleep—yes, 18%!-It’s not normal—just common—and common doesn't mean healthy.-Providers often “stay in their lane,” so parents must become the advocates.-Early signs like bedwetting, snoring, or dark under-eye circles are worth investigating.-One simple shift—like encouraging nose breathing at night—can make a huge difference. Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min