Children's voice problems
involve pathologic laryngeal conditions, including inflammation of the vocal
folds, chronic laryngitis, vocal nodules, vocal polyps and contact ulcers, all
of which can be identified by the child’s Ear, Nose and Throat doctor. These
conditions, usually caused by vocal abuse, are normally reversible with the
elimination of laryngeal overuse and tension, along with a program of vocal
hygiene.
HOW
DO VOICE PROBLEMS
DEVELOP?
Shouting is the primary
way in which children abuse their voices. Typically, children yell from room to
room in the house and scream to each other on the playground. At times, they
make funny noises or imitations of character voices. Children who are excessive
talkers may experience inadequate breath supply and support, causing them to
push down harder on the vocal folds to complete lengthy utterances. All of these
behaviors — shouting, screaming, yelling, excessive talking — are used by
children to get the attention of playmates, siblings, parents and teachers.
However, these behaviors can result in serious vocal abuse problems.

