Breathing exercises in speech therapy correction of stuttering in preschool children

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Stuttering is a common pathology in children that can occur for many reasons. It can be congenital or acquired. Often, such a defect causes problems in communication, slows down the child’s personal and intellectual development, and provokes complexes and embarrassment. It is important to understand that treatment of stuttering in children is possible - today there are several proven approaches and advanced treatment methods. The success of treatment depends on how early the pathology is detected and corrective measures are initiated in a timely manner.

What is stuttering

Stuttering, or logoneurosis, is a speech disorder that consists of frequent repetition of individual sounds, syllables or words. Sometimes the patient does not repeat, but lengthens sounds/syllables. Manifestations of stuttering also include frequent stops or “hesitation” of speech.

A child who stutters experiences difficulty when there is a sudden disruption in the function of speech organs and centers during a conversation. The problem can be caused by spasms of the muscles involved in the formation of sounds, as well as the breathing muscles. This leads to the patient suffering from breathing problems and feeling a sudden lack of air.

Expanding your vocal range

The following games for children who stutter help reinforce what they have learned and teach them to vary the intonation and timbre of their voice, which is very important for full speech:

1. Count from 1 to 10 at different voice pitches;
2. "Motor ship". To the sound U we pronounce the sound of the whistle of 3 ships: large, small and medium in any order;
3. Say the phrase “I order you” with different intonations: angry, friendly, indifferent;
4. 2 people participate. One says “I will punish you!” with a gradual increase in timbre, and the second says “No” with a decrease.

Any exercises where you need to select different intonation, volume, speed of speech and its emotional coloring are suitable.

Causes of stuttering

Stuttering can be caused by internal and external reasons. The main congenital factors include the following:

• pathologies during pregnancy of the mother (hypoxia, previous infections, lack of nutrients, etc.);
• birth injuries, premature birth;
• hereditary tendency;
• increased neuro-emotional excitability.

There are more acquired reasons, they can be the following:

• psychotrauma (state of grief and loss, attention deficit, etc.);
• physiological processes - in this case, stuttering goes away when the insufficient maturation of the cerebral hemispheres is compensated after the age of 5;
• past infectious diseases (meningitis, meningoencephalitis, etc.);
• traumatic brain injuries (concussions, brain contusion, etc.).

Childhood stuttering may be false: the child imitates adults who stutter. False stuttering is said to occur when the speech style of a significant adult is copied, but there is no true stuttering.

Prevention of logoneuroses

Prevention is measures that can prevent the appearance and development of speech in a child and an adult. Such measures can reduce the risk. There are three types of prevention of logoneurosis:

• prevention of speech disorders in children;
• relapse prevention;
• prevention of problems with the child’s social adaptation.

If the baby is too sensitive, weak, or has an unstable psyche, such measures are especially useful. When the first symptoms appear, the parent should immediately contact speech therapists and neurologists.

Symptoms

The main signs of speech impairment are as follows:

• spasms of the speech apparatus when the child pronounces sounds;
• long pauses between spoken sounds;
• repetition of syllables and sounds, words.

However, there are also indirect signs that accompany the main symptoms. These include:

• irritability;
• communication problems, avoidance of communication;
• aggressiveness;
• tearfulness, touchiness.

When diagnosing stuttering in children, the doctor will pay attention to the psychological state. The disease may be accompanied by isolation, refusal to communicate with peers and adults, nervous tics, fears, anxiety, phobias, etc. Sometimes a child suffering from a speech disorder may also suffer from insomnia, decreased appetite, and gastrointestinal dysfunction.

If stuttering is not treated on time, there is a possibility of developing social phobia, nocturnal enuresis and other ailments. Parents must understand that stuttering does not always go away on its own; measures must be taken so that the illness does not leave an imprint on the child’s personality. If corrective measures are refused, children may experience difficulties in building relationships with others, and developmental delays often occur.

Games and exercises to develop speech tempo

The following tasks teach children to recognize fast and slow speech and vary their own tempo. We say at different speeds:

• vowels in any sequence: a-u-o-i-s;
• syllable rows with alternating soft and hard vowels (example: se-sy-su-sa, ze-zyu-zya-zi");
• "Tongue Twisters". For example, “The hedgehog has a hedgehog, the grass snake has a bite,” “The heron, standing on the porch, wrote the letter C.”

Children like fairy tales and tongue twisters and lift their spirits. Choose simpler ones at first, gradually increasing complexity.

Types of stuttering in children

Based on their manifestation, the following forms of stuttering are distinguished:

• tonic: characterized by prolonged pauses, prolongation of vowel sounds;
• clonic: in this case, the child does not pronounce individual letters or syllables;
• combined: this disease is the most complex, it combines the symptoms of both types.

Based on time and consistency of manifestation, three types of stuttering are distinguished:

• stable. It is also called habitual, it appears constantly;
• unstable. Stuttering in this case accompanies stress and situations of heightened emotional background;
• cyclical. This type of stuttering is characterized by periods of calm, when the child speaks calmly, and episodes of stuttering.

Role of the family

Family is the first and main environment for children. Close people can become a pathogenic organism that provokes the prosperity of the disease, but, on the other hand, have a beneficial effect on eliminating the defect.

A large role in the formation of logoclonia is played by the educational model. The risk of developing pathology increases in those families where the baby is raised in an environment of authoritarianism, hypersocialization, and increased emotional connection with the mother. The child is not perceived as he is, the right to develop as an individual is taken away, and his rights are infringed upon. Parents do not have an adequate understanding of the baby and his role in society. There is no attention to age needs.

The atmosphere in the family is another provoking factor for logoneurosis. Scandals, showdowns, misunderstandings between parents act as a chronic stressor. Particular importance is given to violence and dictatorship in a family environment. When faced with the problem of logoneurosis, many parents subconsciously choose the wrong path of response. The first reaction is resistance, rejection of the disease, the desire to get rid of the defect as quickly as possible.

Relatives who are little informed about the disease make fatal mistakes in teaching their children. They show increased control, anxiety, and force the baby to repeat phrases several times. The anxiety of loved ones is transmitted to the patient. In such a situation, the defect worsens. The mother's negative attitude towards the disease provokes increased attention to the speech defects of young patients, increasing sensitivity to the problem.

An examination of parents whose children suffer from logoneurosis revealed the following deviations in the mental state of adults, and, above all, the mother: guilt, anxiety, confusion, hopelessness, worry about the future of the baby. Futile attempts to eliminate the disease disorganize the family. Therefore, parents should pay attention to their condition, which is reflected in the psychological background of the little patient.

Based on the data obtained during conversations with mothers of sick children, it was possible to identify the following models of attitude towards the problem:

• an obstacle that needs to be overcome - we tried everything, this is the last hope;
• undeserved punishment, retribution for sins - why do we need this;
• a disease that needs treatment - he is sick because he is weak;
• tarnished reputation - where does this come from in our educated, wonderful family;
• manifestation of a difficult character - grimacing from harmfulness;
• absence of a problem - different things happen, and so it will pass.

All of these positions are destructive in relation to progress in the treatment of logoneurosis. Considering that children in most cases imitate the reactions of adults, it is hardly worth expecting an adequate assessment from the patient himself, and therefore a positive trend in the treatment of logoclonia.

The only correct response to a problem is to unite the family team. WITH

It is necessary to create a favorable atmosphere in the family for children, adequate participation in treatment without overprotection, but with support.

Parents must remember that their behavior has a powerful impact on the potential of their child.

Recommendations for parents

Treatment of stuttering in children, as well as identification of the causes of speech defects, is carried out by a doctor. But the role of parents in therapy is very important. It is important to behave correctly and follow the following doctor’s recommendations:

• minimizing emotional stress. Avoid aggressive games, listening to loud music, watching TV for long periods of time, or keeping your child at the computer;
• relaxing leisure. Instill in your child a love of classical music and good cartoons, play calm games, read fairy tales, try to get positive emotions and impressions together;
• mode control. Make sure your child gets enough rest and take frequent walks in the fresh air.

A friendly home environment is important at all stages of treatment. It is not recommended to scold the child, shout at him or laugh, or criticize his results if the defect persists at first. It is important to encourage the start of therapy and encourage the baby, encourage him to trust the doctor.

It is very important to maintain a positive atmosphere even after successful correction of stuttering in children. Only in this case can the risk of relapse be minimized.

What to do if a child stutters?

If you notice that your child stutters, it is important to seek professional help. Start by contacting a speech therapist. A speech therapist will evaluate your child's stuttering and decide whether to treat your child's stuttering right away or choose a watchful approach and evaluate your child regularly.

Some children "grow out" of stuttering on their own, but there is currently no way to know which children will do so. It is always better to consult a speech therapist than to assume that your child's stuttering will go away on its own.

Speech therapists use complex treatment that can lead to good results. In addition to classes with a speech therapist, parents will also need daily home sessions with their child. The child also needs positive behavioral reinforcement when speaking without stuttering. Typically, a visit to a speech therapist is required once a week. During these visits, the speech therapist teaches how to effectively reinforce the child's achievements.

Treatment takes different times depending on the degree of stuttering in the child. The speech therapist will work to find ways to make treatment a seamless part of daily life to achieve the best outcome for the child.

There are many treatment options for school-aged children who stutter, and a speech-language pathologist can determine which option is best suited to the individual needs of the child and family. The speech therapist also usually works with the school teacher to provide psychological support to the child at school.

Methods and features of stuttering treatment

The question of where to treat stuttering in children worries many parents. It is important to choose a clinic that can implement an integrated approach. The therapy should be carried out by both the primary doctor - a speech pathologist-speech pathologist, and a neurologist, psychologist, if necessary.

The main correction program is compiled by a speech therapist on an individual basis. He will take into account the causes of the defect, age, social environment, and character of the child. Modern approaches are based on normalizing breathing and controlling the rate of speech. Classes are conducted in a favorable atmosphere and in a playful manner. As a rule, the specialist takes an active part in the process - together with the child he reads poetry, sings songs, and trains the speech apparatus with other exercises.

Additional correction methods include:

• massage: allows you to relax, improve blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms;
• breathing exercises: its task is to normalize breathing.

It is possible to work with a physiotherapist and teach gymnastics techniques so that the child can continue to practice at home. Drug therapy is relevant in cases where stress/trauma is the cause of childhood stuttering. The doctor will prescribe medications with a sedative effect. In severe cases, tranquilizers and anticonvulsants may be prescribed. Light drug therapy can accompany basic correction methods. An integrated and, importantly, team approach allows you to get impressive results - improving the condition and eliminating the defect.

For the development of speech breathing

The following games and exercises are necessary to improve diaphragmatic breathing, correct breathing rate and development of the speech apparatus:

1. “We breathe well.” The child lies down and places his hand on his upper abdomen. Attention is concentrated on the depth of breathing. We inhale and exhale and notice how the tummy rises and falls;
2. "Burst tire." We spread it in front of us like a large tire. As you exhale, slowly say SHSHSHH, while crossing your arms: the right one should be placed on the left shoulder and vice versa. The chest contracts easily as you exhale;
3. "Ball". Similar to the previous one, but as you exhale you need to say FFFF;
4. "Bug". Your arms should be raised to the sides and slightly pulled back. As you exhale, say ZHZHZH, while lowering your arms;
5. "Pendulum". We sit down cross-legged, hands on the back of our heads. First, take a calm breath, then pause for 3 seconds, then bend forward and exhale. When returning to the starting position, inhale;
6. "Harvest". From a standing position, raise your arms straight up, as if taking apples from a tree, inhale and hold your breath for 3 seconds. Lower your arms, lean forward and exhale;
7. "Harmonic". Starting position: standing straight, hands on your belt. Inhale, then pause for 3 seconds. Tilt to the left - exhale. Repeat on the other side;
8. "We warm our hands." We suggest inhaling through your nose and exhaling smoothly through your mouth onto your hands, as if warming them.

For classes with several children, the “Teapot” exercise is suitable. Everyone should be given a jar with a narrow neck. At the signal phrase “Masha’s kettle is boiling,” the named student blows into the opening of the jar so that a whistle is produced. To do this, the exhalation must be very intense, with the lower lip touching the edge of the neck.

Advantages of stuttering treatment at the Family Doctor clinic

The treatment of stuttering in children in Moscow is successfully carried out by specialists from the Family Doctor clinic - speech therapists, speech pathologists, neurologists, psychologists, and psychotherapists.
We offer comprehensive comprehensive diagnostics, accurate identification of the causes of speech defects, and a team approach to solving the problem. Modern equipment with precise, reliable equipment allows us to carry out diagnostics and treatment in a short time. Doctors with many years of experience will provide assistance in cases of any complexity, and will also find an approach to young patients. To make an appointment at a time convenient for you, call the single contact center in Moscow, fill out the online appointment form or contact the clinic reception.

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To develop a sense of rhythm

Speech therapy rhythms involve motor exercises that pursue different goals.

Warm-up

Includes various marching to music with changing directions. Helps you get ready for future work.

Normalization of muscle tone

Suitable exercises: freely swing your arms back and forth, to the sides, alternating between tensing and relaxing your arms.

Rhythmization of movements

Walking, clapping and tapping to different musical tempos and rhythms, singing words and syllables are used. Example: clap the song “Cockerel, cockerel, golden comb.”

Effectively use active exercises accompanied by music and speaking of speech tasks. For example, students pronounce the text and accompany it with movements: “Above us is a tall oak tree (arms to the sides), above us are pine trees, spruce trees (tilts left and right), their heads rustled (clap).”

How we work with stuttering

To successfully eliminate stuttering, it is necessary to identify its cause and, if possible, eliminate the factors that provoke and support this speech disorder. Therefore, it is necessary that the child receives consultation not only from a speech therapist, but also from a psychotherapist and psychologist. Based on the results of diagnosing the child’s current condition and the suspected causes of stuttering, various diagnostic and therapeutic measures are prescribed (for example, a Neurotest blood test, EEG, pathopsychological and neuropsychological diagnostics).

In the treatment of children suffering from neurotic stuttering, in addition to speech therapy sessions, psychological correction and psychotherapy are mandatory and basic. Various relaxation techniques, art therapy, sand and play therapy, MIM therapy, and group therapy are used. For neurosis-like stuttering, supportive drug therapy is prescribed.

At the reception, our specialists will create the most comfortable atmosphere for the child so that the classes are most effective. And using a combined therapeutic approach will allow you to achieve lasting results!

The specialist will also determine the need for family-parent consultations, help analyze family relationships and see something very important, something that cannot be seen while inside the family system.