Voice Disorders in Children
What Is Voice Disorders?
Voice is the sound produced by the vibration of the vocal folds (or vocal cords) in the larynx (voice box). A voice disorder occurs when the vocal folds do not vibrate well enough to produce a clear sound.
Causes
The most common voice disorder in children is the result of “phono trauma” or voice misuse such as yelling or making loud “play” sounds, throat clearing, and excessive coughing. These voice behaviors cause the vocal folds to close tightly against each other, causing blister-like bruises. These bruised areas can harden into callus-like bumps called vocal nodules.
Other types and causes of voice disorders can include:
- Vocal fold paralysis (one or both vocal folds do not move)
- Vocal fold cysts (fluid-filled sac)
- Papilloma (wart-like growths)
- Laryngeal web (band of tissue between vocal folds)
- Muscle tension dysphonia (excessive muscle tightness), resulting in a strained voice
Subglottic stenosis (narrowing of the airway)
How Can Voice Therapy Help Your Child?
The purpose of voice therapy in Speech Therapy is to teach your child a new improved way to produce voice. For this to become easier, the child should practice the voice exercises daily. Family members should also look at their own voice use. Modeling your own good voice behaviors and rewarding good voice habits will help your child improve their voice.
- Avoid yelling and screaming. Model the use of a gentle, softer voice. Walk to your listener, then talk.
- Take turns talking with your child and other family members. Talking at the same time can result in increased volume.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid soft drinks or coffee. Vocal cords produce sound more effectively with less effort if well hydrated.
- Encourage “voice naps.” For example, play a game without any words. This helps your child give his or her voice a rest.
- Reward your child when they use the “better” voice or practice good vocal health. Focus on the positive by telling your child about their good voice habits.