Our vocal folds (cords) are found in our larynx (voice box) in our neck. They vibrate and make a buzzing noise to make voice. We use them every day and they work very hard, so it is important that we look after them.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help rehydrate the vocal cords.
- Don’t spend too long in dry or smoky rooms. Open a window or put a bowl of water near a radiator to keep the air slightly moist.
- If an inhaler is used for asthma, use a spacer and have a drink afterwards.
- Limit the number of lollies/sweets, especially cough sweets, that your child eats. These can have a very drying effect on the vocal cords.
- If your child's voice gets tired or aches, encourage them to breathe some steam from hot water in a bowl or hot bath (but not too hot).
- Take a break, have some quiet time.
- Spend some time each day practising quiet voices (e.g. at dinner time or while discussing a book).
- Coughing and throat-clearing
- Whispering
- Shouting - encourage your child to go to the person they wish to speak to instead of shouting to them from a distance
- Too much singing or humming.