When should I be concerned about my child’s voice?

If your child’s voice sounds:

• louder or softer than other children
• hoarse (as if he/she has laryngitis or a cold)
• breathy
• squeaky
• nasal (as if they are speaking through the nose)
• stuffed up without an obvious cold
• too high or too low compared to other children

If your child is doing the following:

• yelling all the time
• whispering all the time
• running out of breath when speaking
• clearing their throat or coughing too much
• cries or sings very often

What can I do if I am concerned about my child’s voice?

• You can put in a referral to the York Region Preschool Speech and Language Program by calling 1-888-703-KIDS (5437)
  
  
• Talk to your family doctor about your concerns as they may suggest a referral to an Ear Nose and Throat doctor.

Taking Care of a Child's Voice

Suggestions for helping a child develop good voice habits.

Click this link to learn more.

How does a SLP assess a voice problem?

Your Speech-Language Pathologist will:

• talk to you about your concern
• listen to your child’s voice quality
• use sound equipment to measure loudness and pitch levels
• evaluate your child’s breathing
• look inside your child’s mouth

How does an SLP treat a voice problem?

Your Speech-Language Pathologist will:

• teach you and your child about healthier ways to use the voice
• work with you to help your child reduce unhealthy voice use
• make suggestions to help your child learn to use a healthier voice
• provide fun activities for home practice
• monitor your child’s progress
• may suggest you talk to your family doctor about a referral to an Ear, Nose, & Throat Specialist