Blog
Previous Post
Why Play is Good for Your Mental Health
So, what is vocal hygiene anyway? Great question! Vocal hygiene refers to the habits and practices that keep the vocal folds (or vocal cords) healthy and functioning properly. Just like brushing your teeth protects your smile, vocal hygiene protects our voices. It includes behaviors that support healthy voice production and helps prevent or reduce irritation, strain, or injury to the vocal folds. This is especially important for children, who have vocal systems that are still developing and who may not recognize when they’re misusing their voices.
Let’s break down some common myths and facts about vocal hygiene in the pediatric population.
Myth #1: Kids will just “grow out of” voice problems
Fact. Some voice issues may improve over time, but persistent hoarseness, breathiness, or vocal strain that lasts more than two weeks deserves attention! Children can develop vocal nodules or other vocal fold injuries from overuse or misuse, and early intervention is key to preventing long term damage.
Myth #2: Whispering is a good way to rest the voice
Fact: Whispering can actually put more strain on the vocal folds than speaking softly. For a child recovering from vocal fatigue or inflammation, true vocal rest—or speaking in a soft but easy voice—is a better option.
Myth #3: Throat clearing helps “clean out” the voice
Fact: Repeated throat clearing can actually irritate the vocal folds further, creating a cycle of inflammation and hoarseness. Instead, we teach kids to sip water, swallow, or do a gentle “silent cough” to clear sensations in the throat without causing damage.
Myth #4: Only kids who sing or shout a lot need to worry about vocal hygiene
Fact: While kids who love to belt out tunes or yell on the playground may be more at risk, all children benefit from learning healthy voice habits. Chronic throat clearing, frequent upper respiratory infections, and environmental irritants like allergens or dry air can also impact vocal health.
Myth #5: Yelling is just part of being a kid
Fact: While energetic communication is normal, frequent yelling can take a toll on a developing voice. We encourage teaching children how to get attention without shouting—using nonverbal signs, moving closer to the listener, or even using a “teacher voice” versus a “recess voice.”
Best ways to Practice Vocal Hygiene (For Kids & Adults)
Stay Hydrated
Why it matters: Vocal folds need moisture to vibrate smoothly, much like a car engine needs oil to run smoothly.
Tip: Encourage kids to drink water throughout the day. A water bottle at school helps!
Avoid Excessive Yelling or Screaming
Why it matters: Shouting puts too much pressure on the vocal folds.
Tip: Teach alternatives like clapping hands, raising a hand, or using a “teacher voice” instead
Limit Throat Clearing and Coughing
Why it matters: These behaviors slam the vocal folds together and can cause irritation.
Tip: Use a gentle, “silent cough” (basically blowing a forceful, but silent, puff of air through your vocal cords), or swallow or sip water
Use an “Easy” Voice
Why it matters: Tension in the voice can lead to strain
Tip: Practice using a relaxed, clear speaking voice instead of forcing the voice out
Rest the Voice When Sick or Tired
Why it matters: Talking through hoarseness or a sore throat can prolong or worsen injury
Tip: Build in quiet time and encourage nonverbal communication (gestures/drawing) when needed
Avoid Dry or Irritating Environments
Why it matters: Dry air, smoke, and allergens can dry out or inflame the vocal cords
Tip: Use a humidifier in dry weather and avoid secondhand smoke exposure
Watch Out for Reflux or Allergens
Why it matters: These can cause post-nasal drip or throat irritation, affecting the voice
Tip: Work with a doctor to manage underlying conditions that may impact vocal health
Practice Good Vocal Habits at Home and School
Why it matters: Voice use habits form early
Tip: Make “vocal rules” like “quiet voices indoors,” “drink water,” and “no yelling at the TV"
Final Thoughts
Healthy voice habits start early! As a speech therapist, my job is not only to treat voice disorders but to also prevent them. Talking to kids about vocal hygiene in fun, age-appropriate ways help them understand how to care for one of their most powerful tools in life: their voice!
If you’re interested in learning more about pediatric speech language therapy, visit this section of our website.
More by this contributor:
No items found.
Take Action
Not sure what the next step is? You can always call our Information Center to speak to a team member who can direct you to the support and answers you need.
Call Us: 412.420.2400
Comments (0)