The voluntary control that he has over his tongue movements tells you clearly that this is not due to a disease but due to a behavioural maladjustment or a case of voluntary movement made with a secondary motive. His father must spend time with him to understand the problem. If that does not help, he may have to be taken to a psychologist for counselling. In the rare case, these symptoms MAY also indicate a medical problem such as a slow virus infection of the brain. Hence, before taking him for a counselling, do visit his pediatrician for him to rule out a medical problem.

Just one more thought: does the child have a reflux problem? In this, there is a difficulty with the valve that joins the food-pipe with the stomach; the valve does not function properly and causes the food and the acid from the stomach to return upwards, causing chest pain, vomiting, and abnormal tongue thrusting movements. You should ask his pediatrician about this as well when you see him.

Hello there,

A 3 year old is smart enough to draw attention by performing acts like these. What you need to know is whether he does the same for his favourite food as well. Are his demands for the foods he loves are being turned down as he prefers something less nutritious ? If you see a marked change in his behaviour on the arrival of his preferred food, you have the diagnosis in front of you.

Secondly, a child who continues to have problems even during sleep can not feign a disorder. Is the excessive sleep during day time ? Does he have a disturbed night sleep ?

These are pointers towards an underlying behavioural disorder. Since his problem will affect his intake and result in weight loss, he needs to be seen by a Pediatrician with immediate effect.

Provided he is otherwise fine and there are no other complaints, you can be allay your anxiety a little.

Take care.