Pediatric Mouth Sticks And Head Pointers, Communication Aids

What are Mouth Sticks and Head Pointers Used For?

Whether a child uses a mouth stick or pointer, he or she is using head movements to direct the appliance to a desired location on a keyboard or touch screen, or to move a writing or drawing utensil to achieve desired results.

These devices can expand a child’s horizons by allowing them to manipulate a pen, pencil or paintbrush, and bring more independence by enabling them to turn pages and even play games or use a touchscreen computer without assistance.

How are Mouth Sticks and Head Pointers Used?

Mouth sticks are made from lightweight materials, like aluminum. They attach to a retainer-like device which users wears in their mouth.

The user depends on head movements to direct the tip of the stick to a key on a keyboard, or to manipulate the pen, pencil or paintbrush attached to the end of the stick. Most sticks have an attachment that will hold a pen or other writing implement.

Head pointers are worn on the head. They are worn like a headband, or may attach to a cap or helmet. Headbands are padded for comfort.

Pointers can also be used to press keys or manipulate writing utensils.

Who Uses Mouth Sticks and Head Pointers? How do I Know Which One I Need?

There are several things to consider in deciding which device is best suited to a particular child.

Comfort is one consideration. Head pointers vary in the degree of padding and the weight of the head device, the two things that determine user comfort.

Also, control of a head pointer depends a lot on the tightness of the strap that holds it in place.

This tight strap often leads to discomfort. Although it is a personal preference, it seems that most users consider the mouth stick to be more comfortable.

The typical user of a mouth stick has little or no arm control, but must have good head control in order to use the stick effectively.

There are two factors that would make a head pointer a better option than a mouth stick for a child or young adult:

● If the child must breathe through their mouth, they would be unable to hold a mouth stick.
● Children with cognitive disabilities may find it difficult to understand the right way to use a mouth stick. It would be easier for them to use a device which is attached to their head.

One thing to note is that head pointers bring with them a certain degree of dependency, since most users would need someone to attach and detach the device for them.

Final thoughts …

Both mouth sticks and head pointers can allow children and young adults with physical limitations to communicate and create with a great degree of independence.

Deciding which type of device is best for a particular child is a matter of looking at their degree of hand/arm mobility, how much hand and head control they have, their degree of independent cognitive functioning, and which type of device they would be most comfortable using.

Careful consideration should be given to this before ordering a device, particularly a mouth stick, as these are often not returnable, due to hygienic considerations.

Hulet Smith, OTR/L
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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