Respiration in Oro-Motor Exercise

Nayi Disha organized a speech therapy workshop with speech and language pathologist, Ms.Chitra Thadathil. The workshop conducted discussions on various topics such as Hearing, language and speech concerns in children with Down syndrome, Sensory issues in children with Down syndrome and the importance of ORO-MOTOR exercises. Respiration is the first step in the Oro-motor exercise. 

This article is based on the above video that talks about and explains the respiration in Oro-Motor exercise. You can check the other videos here.

Respiration is an important part of oro-motor exercises. It enhances breath support for speech production and reduces fatigue during oral motor tasks like feeding and speech.

Respiration also provides a stable base for practicing placement, strength, and production.

Some important techniques to improve respiration that are required for improving speech and feeding:

1. Posture: Proper posture ensures optimal respiratory function, which is essential for speech and feeding. When seated correctly, the lungs are positioned to allow full inhalation and exhalation.

• 90-degree straight posture:
  • Back upright, not slouched forward or leaning backward.
  • Shoulders relaxed, head aligned with the midline.
• Midline alignment:
  • Legs straight and firmly placed on the ground.
  • Feet flat to provide balance and grounding
• Abdominal strength:

Strong abdominal muscles are essential for proper respiration. They provide the support needed for controlled inhalation and exhalation. Children with hypotonia (low muscle tone) often have weak abdominal muscles. This can lead to shallow breathing, poor breath control, and reduced stamina for speech or feeding tasks.

2. Physical Exercises:.

• Running, jogging, jumping, or other aerobic activities.
• These improve overall breath support and strengthen abdominal muscles.

3. Blowing Activities:

• Blowing bubbles, whistles, pinwheels, or balloons.
• These exercises enhance abdominal control and train the child to regulate airflow.

Improved respiration provides the breath support needed for speech sounds. It ensures safe and strengthening respiratory skills through daily practice.

Parents can work with their children on different activities that should be fun, engaging, and integrated into routines.

Additionally, you may download this caregiver’s manual to understand the long-term care and health of individuals with Downs Syndrome. 

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or what’s app us. Our counselors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for safe management.