This advice-column-style blog for SLPs was authored by Pam Marshalla from 2006 to 2015, the archives of which can be explored here. Use the extensive keywords list found in the right-hand column (on mobile: at the bottom of the page) to browse specific topics, or use the search feature to locate specific words or phrases throughout the entire blog.
When to Use the Dropper
By Pam Marshalla
Q: My 6-year-old male client drools has language and cognitive problems but no articulation problems, but he drools a lot. I know of your dropper technique. Should I use the dropper with him or just tell him to swallow every 90 seconds?
As I am sure you know, a technique is just a technique. Therapy is all about finding out if a certain technique works for a certain client. Therefore in regard to this specific technique, if he can swallow on demand, you don’t need the dropper. But if he can’t, you do.