What if my child can’t keep it in?
When a child can’t keep the trainer in, it’s not about being naughty — there is usually a reason. Find which one applies, then help in the right way.
1. A stuffy nose makes breathing hard
With a blocked nose, having a trainer in the mouth feels uncomfortable, so children naturally take it out.
What to do: Ask your clinician or pharmacist about a suitable way to manage the blocked nose first, and wear the trainer once breathing through the nose is easier. Don’t make your child wear it while the nose is blocked.
2. Too active, and wants to talk while wearing it
Talking or biting hard while wearing it can damage the trainer and defeats the purpose of practising.
What to do: Before putting it in, let your child drink water and say what they want to say. Choose quiet times such as reading, homework or watching a video. Remind them to keep the mouth closed while wearing it, and agree on a hand signal to use instead of talking.
3. No motivation, and nagging doesn’t work
Orders and rushing usually make children resist more.
What to do: Use a sticker chart and swap collected points for a small reward (we suggest rewards other than sweets). Let your child decorate the case themselves (see the case column), and practise together.
4. Not used to it yet, and spits it out in sleep
The most common cause is too little practice before bedtime, or practice that keeps being interrupted.
What to do: Get used to the feeling while your child is awake and aware, so it is less likely to come out during sleep. Practise for 1–2 hours in a row before bed. Taking it out every few minutes to talk or drink means the practice doesn’t count. Before starting, have your child drink water and use the toilet.
5. Sore mouth, or it doesn’t seem to fit
What to do: Don’t trim or cut it yourself — see your clinician.
If your child still can’t keep it in, don’t push on alone. See your clinician, who can check what needs adjusting.
This page is for general health education and does not replace a clinician’s diagnosis or advice. Please use HIKARI as directed by your clinician.