Children with significant speech disorders(alalia, dysarthria, dyslalia caused by a shortened hyoid frenulum, etc.) to correct sound pronunciation, articulation and breathing exercises alone are not enough. Speech therapy massage is required.
Taking the massage system of E.F. Arkhipova as a basis. for children with cerebral palsy and the knowledge gained in regular therapeutic massage courses, I have prepared detailed material both for specialists, teachers, and for parents of children with severe speech impairments. This will greatly facilitate the correction of sound pronunciation and allow you to achieve certain results.
Currently, to correct speech disorders in my classes I use different kinds logomassage. I introduce parents to the methods and techniques of speech therapy massage for further massage at home. The recommendations also provide indications for the use of massage for various speech disorders, and systematize speech therapy massage techniques.
Massage of the articulatory apparatus and articulatory
exercise not only improves motor function
lagging brain systems, but also involve in work
nearby brain systems.
M. E. Khvattsev
About speech therapy massage
— active method mechanical impact that changes the condition of muscles, nerves, blood vessels and tissues of the peripheral speech apparatus. Speech therapy massage is one of the speech therapy techniques that helps normalize the pronunciation aspect of speech and the emotional state of people suffering from speech disorders.
Massage is used for dysarthria (impaired muscle tone), including its erased forms, stuttering, and voice disorders.
Benefits of massage
Massage has a beneficial physiological effect on the body. Massage improves the secretory function of the skin, activates its lymph and blood circulation. And therefore, it improves her nutrition and increases metabolic processes. Under the influence of massage, capillaries expand, gas exchange between blood and tissues increases (oxygen therapy of tissues). Rhythmic massage movements facilitate the movement of blood through the arteries and accelerate the outflow of venous skin.
Massage has a reflex effect on the entire lymphatic system, improving the function of lymphatic vessels. The state of the muscular system changes significantly under the influence of massage. First of all, the elasticity of muscle fibers, the strength and volume of their contractile function, muscle performance increase, and their activity is restored after exercise.
The differentiated use of various speech therapy massage techniques makes it possible to reduce tone in case of muscle spasticity, and, on the contrary, increase it in case of flaccid paresis of articulatory muscles. This helps the formation and implementation of active voluntary, coordinated movements of the organs of articulation.
Speech therapy massage is carried out after.
There is a complex relationship between the force of massage and the body's response. With light, slow stroking, the excitability of the massaged tissues decreases.
The effectiveness of speech therapy massage
Speech therapy massage has an overall positive effect on the body as a whole, causing beneficial changes in the nervous and muscular systems that play a major role in the speech-motor process.
In children with speech disorders receiving speech therapy massage, the following is observed:
- Normalization of muscle tone of general, facial and articulatory muscles,
- Reducing the manifestation of paresis and paralysis of the muscles of the articulatory apparatus,
- Reduction of pathological motor manifestations of the muscles of the speech apparatus (synkinesis, hyperkinesis, convulsions, etc.),
- Increasing the volume and amplitude of articulatory movements,
- Activation of those muscle groups of the peripheral speech apparatus that had insufficient contractile activity,
- Formation of voluntary coordinated movements of articulation organs.
Objectives of speech therapy massage
The main objectives of speech therapy massage are:
Normalization of muscle tone of the articulatory apparatus (more severe cases- reduction in the degree of manifestation of motor defects of articulatory muscles: spastic paresis, hyperkinesis, ataxia, synkinesis);
Activation of those muscle groups of the peripheral speech apparatus in which there was insufficient contractility (or inclusion in the process of articulation of new muscle groups that were previously inactive);
Stimulation of proprioceptive sensations;
Preparing conditions for the formation of voluntary, coordinated movements of the organs of articulation;
Reducing hypersalivation;
Strengthening the pharyngeal reflex;
Afferentation into the speech areas of the cerebral cortex (to stimulate speech development with delayed speech formation).
Contraindications for speech therapy massage
Contraindications for speech therapy massage are infectious diseases (including ARVI, influenza), skin diseases, herpes on the lip, stomatitis, conjunctivitis. Massage should be used with great caution in children with episyndrome (convulsions), especially if the child cries, screams, breaks out of his hands, his nasolabial “triangle” turns blue or there is a tremor of the chin.
Logomassage is performed in a warm, well-ventilated room. Typically, massage is recommended to be carried out in cycles of 10-15-20 sessions, preferably every day or every other day. After a break of 1-2 months, the cycle can be repeated. Under certain circumstances, when massage cannot be done often and regularly, it can be carried out for a longer time, but less frequently.
The duration of one procedure may vary depending on the age of the child, the severity of the speech-motor disorder, individual characteristics etc. The initial duration of the first sessions is from 1-2 to 5-6 minutes, and the final duration is from 15 to 20 minutes. At an early age, massage should not exceed 10 minutes, in junior preschool - 15 minutes, in senior preschool and school age- 25 minutes.
Correct body position during speech therapy massage
Before starting a massage session, the child’s body must be brought into the correct position. Correct posture helps normalize muscle tone (usually relaxation) and makes breathing more free.
For speech therapy massage, the following positions are most optimal:
- In the supine position, a small cushion is placed under the child’s neck, allowing him to slightly raise his shoulders and tilt his head back; arms extended along the body; the legs lie freely or are slightly bent at the knees (you can also place a cushion under the child’s knees);
- The child is in a half-sitting position in a chair with a high headrest;
- The child is in a semi-sitting position in a reclining highchair or a stroller.
Main types of speech therapy massage:
Classic manual massage.
Therapeutic classic massage– is used without taking into account reflex effects and is carried out close to the damaged area of the body or directly on it. The main techniques of manual classic massage are: stroking, rubbing, kneading and vibration.
To perform these techniques when massaging the tongue, speech therapists often use soft-bristled toothbrushes, spatulas, pacifiers, etc.
Acupressure– a type of therapeutic massage, when locally a relaxing or stimulating effect is applied to the biological active points(zones) according to indications for disease or dysfunction.
Hardware massage carried out using vibration, vacuum and other devices.
Probe massage(according to the method of Novikova E.V.)
Novikova E.V. created her own set of probes and developed a special massage of the tongue, lips, cheeks, cheekbones, and soft palate with their help. The purpose of probe massage is to normalize speech motor skills. The method is simple and effective. It makes it possible to purposefully influence the affected areas of the articulatory organs, activating and restoring their activity. Normalization of sound pronunciation is faster.
Self-massage.
The definition of massage follows from its name. The child does the massage himself. This can be either a facial massage with your hands, or, for example, a tongue massage with the help of your teeth (the articulation exercise “Combing the tongue”, when the child forcefully pushes the tongue through closed teeth).
Recommendations for performing speech therapy massage
1. Relaxing massage of articulatory muscles.
It is used in case of increased tone (spasticity) in the speech muscles (facial, labial, lingual muscles).
Carrying out facial massage contributes not only to the formation of facial means of communication, but also to the development of the oral sphere, which is necessary for the child’s normal nutrition and subsequent speech development.
Important: Place the child in positions in which pathological tonic reflexes would manifest themselves minimally or not at all.
Relaxation of the neck muscles (passive head movements).
Before starting a relaxing massage of the articulatory muscles, especially in the case of a significant increase in muscle tone of the upper shoulder girdle and neck, it is necessary to relax these muscles.
The position of the child is on the back or half-sitting, the head hangs slightly back:
a) support the child’s neck from behind with one hand, and with the other make circular movements of the head, first clockwise, then counterclockwise;
b) with slow, smooth movements, turn the child’s head in one direction and the other, rock it forward (3-5 times).
Relaxation of the neck muscles causes some relaxation of the root of the tongue. Relaxation of the oral muscles is achieved by lightly stroking and patting the muscles of the face, lips, neck, and tongue. Movements are carried out with both hands in the direction from the periphery to the center. Movements should be light, sliding, slightly pressing, but not stretching the skin. Each movement is repeated 5-8 times.
Relaxation of facial muscles:
Stroking from the middle of the forehead to the temples;
stroking from the eyebrows to the scalp;
stroking from the forehead line around the eyes;
stroking the eyebrows from the bridge of the nose to the sides to the edge of the hair, continuing the eyebrow line;
stroking from the forehead line down across the entire face along the cheeks, chin and neck;
stroking from the lower edge of the auricle (from the earlobes) along the cheeks to the wings of the nose;
light pinching movements along the edge of the lower jaw;
Pressure massage of the face from the hair roots down.
Relaxation of the labial muscles:
Stroking the upper lip from the corners of the mouth to the center;
stroking the lower lip from the corners of the mouth to the center;
stroking the upper lip (movement from top to bottom);
stroking the lower lip (movement from bottom to top);
stroking the nasolabial folds from the wings of the nose to the corners of the lips;
acupressure of lips (lungs rotational movements clockwise);
lightly tapping your lips with your fingers.
In case of asymmetry of the facial muscles, we perform articulation massage with hypercorrection of the affected side, that is, perform a greater number of massage movements on it.
2. Stimulating massage of articulatory muscles.
It is carried out in case of muscle hypotonia in order to strengthen muscle tone.
Techniques: Energetic and fast movements.
Massage movements are carried out from the center to the periphery. Strengthening the facial muscles is carried out by stroking, rubbing, kneading, pinching, vibration. After 4-5 light movements, their strength increases. They become pressing, but not painful. The movements are repeated 8-10 times.
Strengthening facial muscles:
Stroking the forehead from the middle to the temples;
stroking the forehead from the eyebrows to the hair;
stroking eyebrows;
stroking along the eyelids from the inner to the outer corners of the eyes and to the sides;
stroking the cheeks from the nose to the ears and from the chin to the ears;
squeezing the chin with rhythmic movements;
kneading the zygomatic and buccal muscles (spiral movements along the zygomatic and buccal muscles);
rubbing the cheek muscle (index finger in the mouth, the rest outside);
pinching cheeks.
Strengthening the labial muscles:
Stroking from the middle of the upper lip to the corners;
stroking from the middle of the lower lip to the corners;
stroking the nasolabial folds from the corners of the lips to the wings of the nose;
tingling lips;
slight tingling of lips.
3. Massage of the lingual muscles.
Perform the massage lying down before meals or 1.5-2 hours after meals for 5 minutes.
Gum massage begins with movements in a horizontal direction on one side of the gum. This increases salivation, so after 2-4 weakening movements the child should be given the opportunity to swallow saliva. Then a similar massage is carried out on the other side of the gum. Next, the gums are massaged with vertical movements.
The palate is massaged with a finger along the midline, starting from the front with a slight lifting of the soft palate. This movement is repeated 10-15 times. During the massage, the child can pronounce the vowels A and E.
The tongue is massaged from front to back until the gag reflex occurs. This involves stroking, light patting, and vibration for 15 seconds.
Massage to relax the tongue muscles:
Acupressure in the area of the submandibular fossa, which is carried out for 15 seconds, vibrating movements with the index finger under the lower jaw;
Vibration with two index fingers of both hands at the angles of the jaw (15 seconds).
The movements used are straight, spiral, circular, while holding the tongue with the fingers of one hand, and performing massage movements with the fingers of the other. They should be sent:
From the middle of the tongue to its tip and back.
- From the center of the tongue to the left and right (“herringbone”),
- From the left edge of the tongue to the right and vice versa (across the tongue),
- Rolling a finger over the tongue in different directions,
- Pinching and stretching of the edges of the tongue.
- Stroking the tongue from the hyoid frenulum to the tip of the tongue and back.
Working to overcome drooling
1. Teach children to chew well - first with their heads thrown back.
2. Teach how to suck up saliva and often swallow saliva with one push,
especially before doing exercises.
3. Rotate your tongue in front of your mouth, then swallow saliva.
We wish you success!!!
Speech therapy massage of the lingual muscles with speech accompaniment
Tongue massage We accompany you by reading nursery rhymes, tongue twisters, and poems. Finger movements imitate events and actions occurring in the poem. This distracts the child from possible unpleasant sensations.
“Rain”: point tapping with the index finger along the edges of the tongue clockwise, then counterclockwise.
Rain, rain, more fun
Drip, drip, don't be sorry!
Just don't kill us!
Don't knock on the window in vain
- Splash more in the field:
The grass will become thicker.
“Road”: hold the tip of the tongue with the thumb and forefinger of one hand, and slide up and down along the lateral edges of the tongue with the thumb and forefinger of the other hand.
From the city the road is uphill,
And from the city - from the mountain.
From the village there is a road from the mountain,
And to the village - up the mountain.
“Legs and legs”: point pressure with the index finger (slightly vibrating) on the tongue from the root of the tongue to the tip, then from the tip to the root.
Big feet
We walked along the road: Top, top, top, Top, top, top.
Little feet
They ran along the path: Top, top, top, Top, top, top.
“Firewood”: with the index finger lying horizontally, perform transverse chopping and patting movements.
There is grass in the yard,
There is firewood on the grass:
One firewood, two firewood, three firewood.
Don't chop wood
On the grass of the yard!
“Wolf”: the tongue is raised on the upper lip. Using your thumbs, massage (knead, press) the sublingual area.
The rain is pouring and pouring.
The wolf hid under the horsetail.
Tail under the tail,
And myself in the rain.
“Puppy”: rub the side edges of the tongue longitudinally between the index and thumb of one hand.
I'm cleaning the puppy with a brush.
I tickle his sides.
“Soap”: rub your tongue between your thumb and forefinger in a circular motion.
Dear Mila
I washed myself with soap.
Lathered up, washed off
- This is how Mila washed herself.
“Chatter”: perform spiral movements with your index finger from the middle of the tongue to the edges clockwise, then counterclockwise; then the same movements from the edge of the tongue to its middle in different directions.
Little chatterbox
The milk was chatting, chatting,
She chatted, she chatted,
I didn’t blurt it out.
“Ram”: hold the front edge of the tongue with your thumbs and index fingers. Perform turns (twisting) of the tongue left - right.
The ram has horns
Twisted - twisted,
Turned over - overturned.
“Accordion”: use your index fingers and thumbs to hold the side edges of your tongue. Stretch (flatten) the tongue in different directions at the same time, then compress it towards the middle - imitation of playing the harmonica.
Merry Paramoshka
Plays the harmonica.
“Wasp”: press the index finger on the middle of the tongue 8 - 10 times.
The wasp stung the snake.
I really feel sorry for him.
“Snake”: perform snake-like movements with the index finger from the root of the tongue to its tip, then from the tip to the root.
A snake crawls through the grass
The snake brings gifts:
Snake and snake
Green pants.
“Drum”: perform longitudinal patting movements with horizontally lying index fingers.
The ram is happy
- The ram has a drum,
And the ram drums on the drum,
A ram drums on a drum.
And the ram rattled and knocked
- Suddenly the drum broke!
“Lightning”: move your index finger from side to side longitudinally and in a zigzag manner from the root of the tongue to the tip, and vice versa, from the tip of the tongue to the root.
Lightning flashes brightly,
Clouds of arrows are being sent.
The sky glows with fire
Sparks rain down.
“Grapes”: use your thumb and index fingers to perform sliding movements along the edges of the tongue from root to tip and back.
On Mount Ararat
Varvara tears grapes.
“Broom”: use your index finger to perform “sweeping” movements to the right, then to the left.
Valya sweeps with a broom,
Valya sings a song:
- I sweep, sweep, sweep,
I don't want to be a slob!
“Pies”: the child smiles, inserts the wide, flat tip of his tongue between his front teeth, and slightly bites his tongue from the tip to the middle.
Ate well done
Thirty three
Pirogue,
Yes, everything with cottage cheese.
“Herringbone”: use your thumbs and index fingers to perform sliding movements in a “herringbone” pattern from the center of the tongue to the edges from top to bottom.
The Forest Raised a Christmas Tree,
She grew up in the forest.
Slim in winter and summer
It was green.
“Geese”: pinch the tongue with your thumb and forefinger.
Spanking in single file
Gander after gander.
Looked down on
Gander on gander.
Oh, it will pluck the sides
The gander is at the gander.
Combination of several massage movements
“Chicken”: perform movements in accordance with the text of the poem.
The chicken went out for a walk,
Pinch some fresh grass. Point tingling of the tongue with the index finger.
And behind her are chickens
- Little guys.
- Co-co-co, co-co-co,
Don't go far.
Row your paws,
Look for grains.
Sliding scraping movements from the middle of the tongue to the edges.
“Borsch”: perform movements in accordance with the text of the poem.
Borya cooked and cooked borscht
I didn't finish cooking it. Circular movements with the index finger in the center of the tongue.
Borya salted borscht, salted it
Yes, I didn't add enough salt. Pinching the tongue with the index finger and thumb of one hand.
Tolya cooked and cooked borscht
Yes, I digested it. Circular movements with your finger.
Tolya salted the borscht, salted it
Yes, I over-salted it. Tongue tingling.
Massage aimed at stretching the hyoid frenulum
“Mole”: perform movements in accordance with the text of the poem.
There is a slide in the yard. Using your index fingers and thumbs, pull your tongue down by the tip.
There is a mink under the mountain. Use your index fingers and thumbs to pull your tongue upward by the tip.
In this hole
The mole is guarding the mink. With your index finger, forcefully stroke the hyoid frenulum from bottom to top, stretching it.
Teryokhina Elena Alexandrovna,
speech therapist. State-financed organization
Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug–Ugra
"Rehabilitation center for children and adolescents
With disabilities"Harmony", Nyagan
A specialist can diagnose (diagnose) delayed speech development in a child as early as 3-4 years of age. There are many reasons why a child lags behind the norm. All correctional work, which is aimed at overcoming speech development delays, should be carried out by different specialists: psychologists, teachers, doctors. Only with coordinated interaction of all professionals can we talk about a positive final result.
A significant role when working with children with speech pathology is given to speech correction. An experienced speech therapist, using special methods and techniques, examines a child with developmental disabilities and plans his further work. This work, as a rule, also includes special logomassage, since speech therapy massage for mental retardation is effective remedy in the fight against the disease.
Basic concepts and requirements for speech therapy massage
High-quality speech therapy massage for delayed speech development gives excellent results in eliminating speech disorders. The number of sessions is calculated individually for each child with mental retardation. Sessions should generally be held daily. In order for a specialist to perform this procedure on a child, he needs to undergo special training - medical courses, while studying in detail the anatomy and physiology of the child’s body, in order to avoid causing injury to it.
Important! It is strictly forbidden for a specialist to perform a massage with jewelry on his hands or affected skin. Nails must be cut, hands clean and warm.
In practice, two types of massage are used:
| Type of massage | Features of application |
| Speech therapy massage | Promotes the normal functioning of muscle tone and improves the functioning of the muscles of the articulatory apparatus. |
| Neck massage | With the help of a certain effect on the collar zone, it allows you to saturate with oxygen and increase blood circulation in the area of the cerebral cortex that is directly responsible for speech. |
Contraindications for use
The procedure is prohibited if one of the following diagnoses is observed:
- acute infectious diseases;
- fever, chills;
- infectious diseases of the skin (herpes, ulcers, dermatitis);
- lymphadenitis (inflammation of the lymph nodes);
- infectious eye diseases (conjunctivitis);
- oral infections (stomatitis, gingivitis);
- high/low blood pressure.
Tools in the work of a speech therapist
During the procedure, the specialist can use the following tools for speech therapy massage:
- professional vibrating massagers;
- massage probes;
- hands.
Whatever technology and working tool the speech therapist chooses, one of the first and most important aspects in the specialist’s work is the ability to find contact with the child and relax him.
Massage location
A number of requirements are imposed on the office to carry out the procedure. It should be equipped with everything necessary: children's toys, a couch, a stool and a chair for work. If the procedures are carried out in a hospital, then it is worth removing from the office those things that may frighten the baby (medical instruments, visual aids and materials). The temperature in the treatment room should always be comfortable.
Technology of speech therapy facial massage
In speech correction work with children, speech therapists, along with traditional forms and techniques, also use speech therapy facial massage. Classic massage for children with speech delay is performed with hands. Four main techniques are used in behavior:
- stroking,
- trituration,
- kneading,
- vibration.
Its implementation consists of performing manipulations on different areas of the face:
- cheeks,
- chin.
Each movement is repeated 8-10 times.
Forehead massage
Produced as follows:
| Action | What it does | Notes |
| Stroking movements | Palm | From the middle of the forehead to the temporal part. |
| Kneading movements | Hand | |
| Vibration | Hand or vibration massager | From the eyebrows to the top of the forehead. |
Cheek massage
The next step will be massaging the cheeks. During execution, kneading and stretching movements are used. They are performed from the corners of the mouth up to the temples in the direction of the cheek muscles. Then they move on to light stroking from the cheekbones to the bottom of the jaw.
Nose massage
Mouth massage
At the next stage, the specialist massages the mouth. To do this, stroke and stretch the skin from the middle of the upper lip, smoothly moving to the corners of the mouth. Similar actions are carried out for the lower lip. Type of movement – stroking, rubbing and vibration.
Chin massage
The procedure ends with massaging the chin. To do this, they use stroking and kneading technologies with movements from the chin to the corner of the mouth. Type of movement – stroking and kneading.
A high-quality procedure is overcoming a painful step on the path to overcoming speech pathology.
Massage of the collar area for a child with RRR
Scientists have long proven the relationship between the collar region and the communication function (speech function). The cervical-collar region is not only the neck, it consists of many other components, namely:
- cervical vertebrae area,
- back of the neck,
- upper muscles of the shoulder girdle,
- lateral surface of the neck,
- supraclavicular fossa.
Knowing the structure of the collar zone and the mechanisms of action, with the correct technology of manipulation, you can get a good result. It is this type of procedure that helps bring speech skills closer to normal and ensures full functioning. nervous system. Massage for a child with mental retardation should be done in order to directly stimulate the speech areas of the brain.
Speech delay - massage of the collar zone, technology for its implementation
As soon as the child is completely relaxed and the master is convinced that his condition is satisfactory, then massage of the collar area can begin for ZRR. He is placed on the couch with his back up, his arms are extended along his body. Children with RDD who have scoliosis have their heads turned in the opposite direction to the curvature. Next, the manipulations described in the table below are performed.
| Action | What it does | Note |
| Light stroking from top to bottom | Palm | Without affecting the spine area. |
| Stroking from top to bottom | Palm | Without affecting the spine area. The pressure increases. |
| Trituration | 3 phalanges of fingers | |
| Squeezing | 3 phalanges of fingers | The trapezius muscle is actively massaged. |
| Kneading | Hand | The upper back and shoulder joints are worked. |
The first sessions begin with 15 minutes, and subsequently increase the time to 25 minutes. When performed correctly, the baby should not feel pain. Therefore, massage for RRR of the collar zone should be protected from strong rubbing and kneading in order to avoid pain in the cervical segment.
Important! Massage for a child with speech delay is accompanied by a conversation between the speech therapist and the child, and it is important to use every minute and encourage the child to talk and develop communication skills.
Massage course
To get a good result, the specialist prescribes a whole course of massage of the collar area for cervical cancer. This is a minimum of 20 sessions and it is possible to increase their number. After 1.5 - 2 months this course can be repeated.
Positive dynamics are noticeable after just a few procedures. Thus, children with mental retardation, who have signs of hyperactivity, become calmer after the procedure, and their general well-being improves. This type of procedure will help a child with mental retardation not only quickly cope with speech impairments, but also improve it.
Video
Speech development is a complex and lengthy process in which failures are possible. Some of them arise due to genetic predisposition or unsuccessful childbirth, while others are the result of psychological trauma or pathologies of the speech apparatus.
If problems arise, there is no need to panic; it is much more productive to seek help from a speech therapist. After the examination, the doctor will understand the nature of the deviations and take measures to correct them.
Why do you need gymnastics for the tongue?
Articulation gymnastics is useful for all children. The purpose of this kind of physical education is to improve the mobility of the speech apparatus, to develop the correct posture of the lips and tongue for the clear pronunciation of sounds. She will teach some children to speak correctly, and prepare others for a meeting with a speech therapist and more complex exercises. Exercise complexes include three types of exercises: for the tongue, lips and cheeks.
Correct pronunciation plays a big role in mental and emotional development. Communication with peers is extremely important and can become more difficult due to problems in speech development. It is better to start working with your child before the age of 4 years. Of course, you can do the exercises later, but achieving results will be more difficult.
If children aged 2-3 years old use gymnastics to train and develop their speech apparatus, then older children have their existing defects corrected. Physical training of the language helps to quickly detect and correct problems with pronunciation.
Speech exercises take place in game form and kids like it. Simple exercises are easy to remember and do at home. They don't require large quantity free time and special efforts from parents.
Indications for performing exercises for children 3-4 years old
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Speech therapy exercises train the child’s articulatory muscles and force them to work actively and correctly. Articulatory exercise and tongue massage are indicated for children who have congenital or acquired speech defects that arise for the following reasons:
In all of the above situations, speech gymnastics is combined with classes with a speech therapist. Constant observation and regular exercise and logomassage helps to achieve positive results in a short time. The listed deviations are basic, but training articulatory muscles is useful for absolutely all children.
Symptoms of articulatory muscle hypertonicity
Hypertonicity is excess muscle tension. Children with this diagnosis are often irritable and tense. They are unable to relax, even when they fall asleep.
Externally, children with increased tone are given away by pursed lips, sometimes this can cause folds to form. The tongue is pulled back and tenses. At the same time, his back bends and presses against the sky, so sometimes it seems that the child is speaking through his nose. Muscle hyperonus prevents you from turning your head completely, opening your mouth wide, or holding it in that position. The upper lip is stretched and pressed against the gums or simply raised.
This pathology is an indication for a relaxing massage. The session begins with soft sliding movements in the neck and shoulders. This helps reduce tissue excitability and relieve hypertonicity of the tongue root.
The facial muscles are massaged with longitudinal and transverse strokes of the forehead, the area around the eyes, cheeks, and the line from the earlobes to the nose. The lips are worked individually, first with soft movements from the corners to the center, then in a circular motion with light pressure.
Signs of low tone
Sometimes muscle tone is not increased, but rather below normal. Muscular hypotonia occurs due to underdevelopment of the nervous system and is often found in premature infants. Patients with reduced tone are too calm, they sleep well and practically do not cause problems for their parents, but such babies develop more slowly than their peers.
Hypotonia is characterized by the following symptoms: sagging cheeks and facial contours, the lower lip turns out and practically lies on the chin, the tongue becomes flaccid and falls out of the mouth. The child is simply unable to keep his mouth closed.
- Stroking movements of the forehead, the area above the eyes, and chin are complemented by kneading the zygomatic and cheek muscles.
- The cheeks are massaged on both sides: inside and outside at the same time.
- The lips are stroked and pinched from the middle to the corners. Pressure movements should increase gradually, without causing discomfort or pain to the child.
Often there are patients with mixed tone, when the cheeks are relaxed, and the tongue tenses and presses against the palate, or vice versa - a flaccid tongue, when it is impossible to distinguish its tip, with good tone of the lips and cheeks. Such children are given a differentiated massage that combines both tactics.
What will be needed to complete the complex?
Before prescribing speech therapy massage and articulation gymnastics to a child, the doctor conducts a thorough diagnosis of the little patient. During the examination, the structure of the neck and facial muscles and the upper body is checked. An experienced specialist is able to identify even minor deviations in speech function.
There is no need to massage the tongue in a clinic; a mother can do it to her child on her own at home. You will first need to thoroughly check the room in which you plan to carry out the procedure, wash and warm your hands.
The duration of the first sessions usually does not exceed 5 minutes and gradually, over 4 sessions, increases to 20. It must be remembered that the procedure time depends on the age and emotional state of the child.
You can learn massage techniques at an appointment with a speech therapist or by carefully studying the following video. Logomassage affects all the muscles of the speech apparatus, and Special attention is given to the language. It is not necessary to develop it using specialized devices. To strengthen the tip of the tongue, improvised objects such as a spoon or a toothbrush with soft bristles are suitable (we recommend reading: how can you make a toothbrush softer?).
Massaging the tip of your tongue is not difficult. In addition to the brush, you will need gauze swabs that are placed under the tongue. This is necessary to collect excess saliva; during massage it is produced more strongly. When making longitudinal, circular or transverse movements along the tongue, you do not need to press hard on the brush. Actions should not cause pain or inconvenience. In most cases this process Children like it, even those who were wary of it at first.
Tongue exercise technique
Articulation exercises strengthen and develop the speech apparatus. Three-year-old children do not respond to all sounds, but with regular exercise, their speech becomes clear.
Effect of speech therapy exercises will only be noticeable if:
- classes are held daily;
- exercises are performed in front of a mirror so that the child has the opportunity to check the correctness of the actions;
- more attention is paid not to the quantity of exercises learned, but to the quality of their implementation;
- charging starts with simple complexes and gradually becomes more complex;
- the exercises are presented in a playful, humorous form; sometimes the child does not need to be informed at all that he is doing the exercise; it is better to present everything in the form of a new game.
The baby must be prepared in advance for gymnastics by talking about the procedure; for clarity, you can use pictures. After this, there is a demonstration of the exercises, the first attempts to perform them together with the child, and adjustments.
At the initial stage, the difference in the tone of the muscles of the articulatory apparatus is visible to the naked eye. Gradually, the differences are smoothed out, and the tone returns to normal.
Children may start to try too hard or become nervous. It is necessary to relieve the emotional stress: stretch your shoulders, shake your hands with them. To improve perception, many sets of exercises are supplemented with funny poems. This also helps relieve stress and better remember the exercise.
There are two types of exercises. The difference is that with static actions, the lips and tongue are fixed in a certain position for several seconds, while dynamic actions force them to move.
Purpose of massage
Logomassage has proven itself in restoring speech functions, and for some diseases, such as cerebral palsy, such procedures are mandatory. In young patients with this diagnosis, muscle tone is impaired, which inevitably leads to speech defects. Massage helps achieve:
Please note that massage is strictly prohibited when:
- stomatitis;
- conjunctivitis and gingivitis;
- herpes lesions of the oral mucosa;
- enlarged lymph nodes.
For children with severe deviations in sound pronunciation, the addition of speech exercises with speech therapy massage is simply necessary. Massage improves the general condition of the body, stimulates blood circulation and improves metabolism. After passing full course Lymph exchange is restored, muscle contractile function returns to normal.
Experts' opinions
Experts unanimously declare the benefits of speech development, even in the absence of obvious deviations; it is important to start working with the child as early as possible. Speech therapy massage improves blood circulation, increases muscle elasticity and is an excellent prevention of speech abnormalities.
In order for the baby to speak, it is necessary to stimulate him, talk to him more, or better yet, ask him about something, forcing him to speak on his own. Speech develops better in children with a broad outlook and those who are accustomed to sculpting, drawing, designing, i.e. develop fine motor skills hands Do not worry if at 1.5-2.5 years the child does not want to talk, kindergarten this goes away, but a 3-year-old silent dog needs to be consulted by a specialist to determine the cause of the problem.
Massage of facial muscles for speech development (speech therapy massage)
All parents, without exception, are looking forward to their beloved child speaking. You can help your baby start talking by massaging the facial muscles. This kind of massage can be started selectively from 2-3 months, and for children over 2 years old who speak poorly, it is simply necessary. The mother can do the massage herself.
Speech therapy massage begins with a general facial massage, then moves on to a lip massage and then carries out manipulations in the child’s oral cavity. It should be borne in mind that not all children react positively to manipulations in the mouth, since the mouth area is very sensitive. The child should receive only pleasant sensations during speech therapy massage. Otherwise, the tone and hypersensitivity of the oral area increases. Inept active actions can lead to revitalization of the reflex sphere, in particular, the biting or gag reflexes.
Carrying out facial massage contributes not only to the formation of facial means of communication, but also to the development of the oral sphere, which is necessary for the child’s normal nutrition and subsequent speech development.
Facial massage is recommended daily for three minutes. This takes into account General requirements to conduct a massage: the environment should be comfortable and hygienic. Massage is contraindicated in the presence of skin or somatic diseases.
During the massage, you need to actively communicate with the child, play with him, sing songs to him, tell him fairy tales and poems, you can accompany the massage with calm music.
Among the massage techniques, the most acceptable are stroking and light vibration, which promote muscle relaxation. When stroking, the massaging hand glides over the skin without moving it into folds. First, superficial stroking is used, then deeper. It can be done with the palms, pincer-shaped fingers, or the dorsum of the fingers bent at right angles at the metacarpophalangeal joints.
Continuous vibration is performed by the end phalanges of the fingers, which are placed on the skin and produce a shock - a movement reminiscent of sifting flour through a sieve.
The massage should be carried out at room temperature with clean, warm hands, first stroking - four movements in each direction, then - similarly - continuous vibration and then stroking again.
When performing a massage in the oral area, you can use the recommendations of M. Borkovskaya, G.Ya. Levina, E.F. Arkhipova. So, to reduce hypersensitivity before eating, you need to gently touch the child’s shoulders, neck, forehead, cheeks, gradually approaching the oral cavity.
Facial massage is carried out in the following directions:
· from the middle of the forehead to the temples;
· from eyebrows to scalp;
· from the inner corner of the eye to the outer along the upper eyelid and in the opposite direction along the lower;
· from the root of the nose to the temporal region;
· from the corner of the mouth to the tragus of the auricle;
· from the middle of the chin to the earlobe;
· along the front surface of the neck - from bottom to top, along the sides - from top to bottom.
G.Ya. Levina suggests performing a special massage of the lower part of the face in the following sequence:
· simultaneous stroking massage of both cheeks from the nose to the ears with slightly spaced fingers 2,3,4,5;
· lightly rubbing the nasolabial folds from the wings of the nose to the corners of the mouth with the second fingers of both hands;
· stroking the chin from the middle to the earlobes with the second and third fingers of both hands;
· massage of the orbicularis oris muscle: from the middle of the upper lip to the corners and further to the middle of the lower lip;
· separate stroking of the upper lip from the midline to the corners of the mouth, from the nose to the edge of the lower lip, from the midline to the corners of the mouth, from the chin to the edge;
· stroking the neck from the middle to the earlobes.
The rubbing technique is used in the same sequence. With barely noticeable efforts, with small circular movements, the fingers move in the same directions, then lightly tap with the pads of fingers 1, 2, 3, 4 throughout the lower part of the face and neck from the midline to the ears. Finally, a stroking technique is performed. The total massage time is 5 minutes.
To relax the neck muscles, the child's head is rocked. The speech therapist's right hand is placed under the child's head and, with slow, smooth movements, turns his head in one direction and the other, rocking him forward. Relaxation of the neck muscles causes some relaxation of the root of the tongue.
After this, you can proceed to massage the area around the lips, keeping your mouth closed:
· massage to relax the muscles of the lips;
· stroking the nasolabial folds from the wings of the nose to the corners of the lips;
· stroking the upper lip from the corners of the mouth to the middle;
· stroking the lower lip from the corners of the mouth to the middle;
· patting lips;
· lip vibration.
Gum massage begins with movements in a horizontal direction on one side of the body. This increases salivation, so after 2-4 weakening movements the child should be given the opportunity to swallow saliva. Then a similar massage is carried out on the other side of the gum. Next, the gums are massaged with vertical movements.
The palate is massaged with a finger or a vibrating device along the midline, starting from the front with a slight lifting of the soft palate. This movement is repeated 10-15 times. During the massage, the child can pronounce the vowels A and E.
The tongue is massaged from front to back until the gag reflex occurs. This involves stroking, light patting, and vibration for 15 seconds.
Acupressure vibration massage can be used. First, the points are massaged to improve chewing (1.2), then swallowing (3.4)
M. Borkovskaya writes that these points can also be influenced thermally - with heat or cold.
Massage to relax the tongue muscles:
· acupressure in the area of the submandibular fossa, which is carried out for 15 seconds, vibrating movements with the index finger under the lower jaw;
· vibration with two index fingers of both hands at the angles of the jaw (15 seconds).
Speech therapy massage
I present a simple version of massage of the face and organs of articulation. It is adapted for parents and is easy to make.
In what cases can these exercises be recommended?
1. At six to seven months the baby did not start babbling.
2. When a child pronounces sounds, it seems that he does it with difficulty, he has an “awkward” tongue and “disobedient” lips.
3. The child pronounces sounds easily, but they are unclear/“blurred”
4. The child is searching for articulation; he does not understand how to position his tongue and lips to pronounce a sound/word/syllable.
It is also important to remember that the child should like the massage.
You need to start gradually, with exercises that are pleasant for the baby, and end with them.
Increase exercises gradually, skip those that the child absolutely does not like.
Invite your child to do some of the exercises himself. Perhaps he will start with you or with a bear, and then he will do it on himself.
Massage of the face and organs of articulation
1. Facial muscle massage
To massage the facial muscles, “chopping” and sliding (imitation shaving) movements with the edge of the index finger, stroking, patting with the palms and fingertips are used. It is necessary to make the same number of movements both clockwise and counterclockwise.
Exercise No. 1. Activation of facial muscles. Rub the terry cloth mitten over each cheek in a circular motion. The movements should be uniform and energetic, starting from the wings of the nose, moving up towards the temples, and down from the temples.
Exercise No. 2. Tapping your fingers on the child’s face “Fingers ran” Walk with quick, energetic movements over the child’s cheeks and lips.
Exercise No. 3. Patting the child’s cheeks with your palms. The bases of the adult's hands are connected under the baby's chin, and his cheeks are covered with his palms. Clap vigorously, but not too hard.
Exercise No. 4. Tapping the child's lips with the index and middle fingers. At the same time, you need to say: “M-mm-mm...”
Exercise No. 5. Game "Call".
Pronounced in a chant:
- “Wall, wall” (in this case, you need to pat your cheeks, as in exercise No. 3),
- “Ceiling” (touch forehead),
- “Two steps” (pat the chin and upper lip with the index and middle fingers),
- “And - the bell rings: “Ding!” (press your index finger on the tip of the baby’s nose).
Exercise No. 6. Sliding (shaving) movements with the side of the index finger from the temples to the baby’s mouth.
Exercise No. 7. Chopping movements with the edge of the index finger in the direction from the temples to the mouth.
Exercise No. 8. Close the baby’s mouth and hold the lower jaw. Run your other hand from your chin down your neck. This teaches you to swallow saliva.
2. Massage the child’s oral muscles and tongue
(Use a massage toothbrush or an adult’s finger wrapped in a bandage).
1. Slap your fingertips around your mouth clockwise and counterclockwise.
2. Do the same thing more slowly, stopping and, as it were, “screwing in deeper” with each touch.
3. Massage the baby’s upper labial muscles: pat the tip or pad of the index finger from the nose to the upper lip.
4. Stroke the child’s muscles in the direction from the nose to the upper lip. The movements are performed with the edge of the index finger.
5. Press several times with springy movements of the index and thumb on the points in the corners of the mouth. Then bring the corners of your lips together, imitating their position when pronouncing the sound “U”. Be sure to say “Oooh” when doing this.
6. Place your index finger under your lower lip and push it up until it meets your upper lip. Say “Ba-ba-ba” while doing this
7. “Dumplings”: close the baby’s lips with the movements of the thumb and forefinger. These movements should resemble those made when making pies or dumplings. Say “Mmmm” while doing this.
8. Place a special massage brush or a finger wrapped in a bandage in the child’s mouth, placing it on the inside of the cheek. Perform rotational movements, lifting the muscles upward. Be sure to perform movements both right and left.
9. “Rub” the muscles of both cheeks from the inside. Index finger with a brush or bandage in the baby's mouth, thumb outside.
10. Use your finger to lift the tip of the child’s tongue to the alveoli (tubercles behind the upper teeth), while saying “Yes-da-da,” “Ta-ta-ta.”
Tongue massage can be done with a special massage or toothbrush, clapping and stroking the center of the tongue from tip to root and back.
End of the massage. Close the baby's mouth and use your index finger to help keep the mouth closed and help swallow. Increase your exercises gradually. Good luck. Write how it turns out.
Speech therapy massage for cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a traumatic disease of the central nervous system as a result of a birth injury or an infectious disease of the pregnant woman, in which the child’s movement functions (pathological tonic reflexes) and speech are affected. To restore impaired functions in children suffering from cerebral palsy, speech therapy massage, therapeutic exercises and other means are used.
Considering that already from the first days of life, under the influence of pathological tonic reflexes, the child develops pathological positions of the arms, legs, body and head position (torticollis), it is necessary to select for each child individually a body position in which pathological tonic reflexes do not appear at all, or appear minimal. These positions of the torso, limbs, and head are called the “reflex of prohibiting positions”; they must be given to the child before the start of speech therapy classes and during the process of gymnastics and speech therapy massage.
When performing a massage of cerebral palsy and gymnasts great importance has a choice of poses.
Speech therapy massage poses:
fetal position;
lying on his back, a cushion is placed under the child’s neck, while the legs are bent at the knee joints;
lying on your back, the head is fixed with bolsters;
on the side in the fetal position;
in the prone position, a cushion is placed under the baby’s chest.
When selecting a pose, a speech therapy massage is performed (massage of facial and chewing muscles, massage for cerebral palsy).
Speech therapy massage technique for face and neck massage
stroking (ironing) with the pads of two or three fingers from the middle of the forehead to the temples;
stroking from the eyebrows to the beginning of the scalp;
stroking on both sides of the nose (from top to bottom);
stroking from the middle of the chin to the earlobes;
stroking from the middle of the upper lip to the earlobes.
Each movement must be repeated 3-5 times. Perform 3-5 times during the day.
Massage technique for cerebral palsy - relaxation of the tongue muscles
impact on a point located in the submandibular fossa;
impact on symmetrical points nasolabial fold;
impact on symmetrical points of the zygomatic muscles;
impact on symmetrical points of the submandibular muscles.
Gymnastics are performed in combination with speech therapy massage. It is aimed at increasing the volume and strength of the respiratory muscles, depth, and rhythm of breathing. For a child over five months old, the following gymnastic exercises can be performed:
Spread your arms to the sides, and when returning, press them to your chest;
raise your arms up, and when lowering, press them to your chest;
move your right hand to the side and turn your head at the same time, then
return to original position;
extend the leg(s), then bend them at the knee and hip joints and bring them to the stomach;
starting position - lying on your stomach, lift your head and shoulders by your outstretched arms, and then lower your head and shoulders.
Repeat all exercises 3-5 times. Subsequently, the set of gymnastic exercises for cerebral palsy is complicated and supplemented with a number of exercises.
Goals and objectives of speech therapy massage and therapeutic exercises:
Normalization of tone and motility of the articulatory apparatus;
increasing the force and duration of exhalation;
development of hand manipulations;
development of rhythmic breathing and limb movements;
development of visual differentiated movements;
stimulation of kinesthetic movements (sensations) and development of finger touch;
development of emotional reactions;
development of hand movements with objects (toys).
Dear Parents! I would like to offer speech therapy massage for your children.
It can be done before speech therapy sessions or in the morning when the child wakes up.
To perform it, choose a time when the child is in a good mood, so that the baby is relaxed and does not experience negative emotions to a new type of exercise.
Massage will have a positive effect on the development of sensitivity in your children and will help strengthen the muscles of the lips and tongue.
Speech therapy massage
LIPS MASSAGE
1. Place your index fingers at the wings of the nose and carry out stroking movements with pressure towards the corners of the mouth, along the nasolabial folds. 8-10 times.
2. Place your index fingers in the middle of your upper lip and rub it towards the corners of your mouth. 8-10 times.
3. Place your index fingers in the middle of your lower lip and rub it with pressure towards the corners of your mouth. 8-10 times.
4. Using the thumb and forefinger of the right hand, first pinch the upper lip from one corner of the mouth to the other, then the lower one. 8-10 times each lip.
5. Using the index finger of your right hand, tap above the upper lip and under the lower lip clockwise. The tapping should be active, the strength of the movements gradually increasing.
6. Place your index fingers in the corners of your lips and gather your upper lip towards the middle, then stretch your lips again, and then use the same technique to gather your lower lip. 8-10 times.
TONGUE MASSAGE
When performing an activating (strengthening) massage, you should pay attention to the following points:
1. Movements during a strengthening massage are active, intense and directed mainly from the root of the tongue to the tip;
2. The techniques of kneading and grinding are mainly used;
3. As a rule, with reduced muscle tone of the tongue, the gag reflex is also reduced, so massage movements in this case can be quite active even in the area of the root of the tongue;
4. With reduced muscle tone, as a rule, hypersalivation (increased salivation) is observed, therefore, before performing the massage and during the massage, the adult invites the child to swallow saliva.
An energizing massage may include the following movements.
1. Grinding in a horizontal direction. Thumb on top, middle and index finger on bottom. Rubbing the muscles of the tongue from root to tip on one side of the tongue, then on the other.
2. The position of the fingers is the same. Rubbing the muscles of the tongue into a spiral shape
movements, the force of pressure gradually increases. The movement is directed from the root to the tip of the tongue on one side, then on the other.
3. The position of the fingers is the same. Grinding the muscles of the tongue in the transverse
direction from one side of the tongue, then from the other.
4. Thumb and index fingers are on the side surfaces
language. Squeeze the tongue from the sides. Keep your tongue tight
position 1 - 2 s, move your fingers a little and repeat the movement.
5. The position of the fingers is the same. Right hand squeeze the tongue from the side surfaces, and with your thumb and forefinger make rubbing movements, gradually moving from the root to the tip of the tongue.
6. Using your thumb and index finger, make pinching movements along the edge of the tongue.
7. Patting the tongue muscles with a spatula (or a grooved surface
pens, toothbrush).
8. Vibrate the tongue using a wooden spatula, which is applied to the tip of the tongue for 10-15 s. You can place a gauze roller on the child’s lower teeth to avoid damaging the mucous membrane of the lower surface of the tongue.
Speech therapy massage to strengthen facial muscles.
The nature of the massage movements should be of a pronounced tonic nature; the baby’s skin may turn a little red, but do not overdo it smile
If your baby's skin is very dry, you can use a small amount of baby cream.
When performing a massage, you should follow some rules:
1.Massage movements are carried out from the center to the periphery.
2. Strengthening the facial muscles is carried out by stroking, kneading, rubbing, vibration.
3. After 4-5 light movements, the strength increases, they become pressing, but not painful.
4. The movements are repeated 8-10 times.
Strengthening facial muscles:
1. stroking the forehead from the middle to the temples;
2. stroking the forehead from the eyebrows to the hair;
3. stroking eyebrows;
4. stroking along the eyelids from the inner to the outer corners of the eyes and to the sides;
5. stroking the cheeks from the nose to the ears and from the chin to the ears;
6. squeezing the chin with rhythmic movements;
7. kneading the zygomatic and cheek muscles (spiral movements along the zygomatic and cheek muscles);
8. rubbing the buccal muscle (index finger in the mouth, the rest outside);
9. pinching cheeks.
During the massage, you can recite poems in time with the movements, for example, the following:
“Mom washed the children’s foreheads,
Mom washed her forehead with soap.
Mom washed the children's cheeks,
Mom washed her cheeks with soap.
Mom washed the children's nose,
Mom washed her nose with soap.
Mom washed the children's eyes,
Mom washed her eyes with soap.
Mom washed the children's mouths,
Mom washed her mouth with soap.
Soap the children's chins,
And I haven’t forgotten him.”
Instead of the word “baby” you can say daughter, son or child’s name.
Speech therapy massage for children can be performed at home if the child has no contraindications. This type of massage allows you to achieve better results in correcting the activity of the speech apparatus and is an important part of a set of measures to eliminate the manifestations of speech dysfunctions.
Speech therapy massage for children at home has the following goals:
- normalize general and articulatory muscle tone;
- reduce the manifestations of defects in the articulatory apparatus;
- form coordinated and voluntary movements of articulatory organs.
Indications for speech therapy massage
Speech therapy massage for children at home is indicated for:
- speech development disorders;
- ineffectiveness of traditional speech therapy procedures;
- a number of diagnoses, which include dysarthria, delays in mental and speech development, phonetic-phonemic underdevelopment of speech.
Parents can carry out speech therapy massage for children themselves, having previously received consultation from a specialist. Limitations in speech therapy massage are:
- capillary diseases;
- thrombotic vascular diseases;
- acute respiratory infection;
- excessive tissue sensitivity;
- infected wounds;
- tonsillitis.
Speech therapy massage for dysarthria
Speech therapy massage for children at home helps with dysarthria, if traditional speech therapy methods do not bring the desired effect. In this case, massage is performed in addition to basic speech therapy and neurological procedures.
With dysarthria, the muscles of the organs of the articulatory apparatus are inactive, and the pronunciation of words or sounds is difficult, so a set of measures includes movements and exercises aimed at increasing the muscle tone of the tongue and adjacent organs involved in articulation.
The choice of exercises depends strictly on the state of muscle tone in the articulation zone.
Dysarthria can be successfully treated in early childhood, which consists of a set of procedures: restorative physical education, reflexology, speech therapy massage. Massage of the tongue in case of illness can stimulate muscle tone and make the child’s tongue more mobile and flexible, which makes it easier to pronounce sounds and words; The technique of sound pronunciation changes.
In addition, speech therapy massage for children with dysarthria expands the range of articulatory functions, and the most difficult to pronounce sounds become more accessible. The general positive effects of massage also include improved blood circulation.
Before starting systematic procedures, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician and neurologist in order to exclude contraindications and assess the overall performance of the organs involved in the articulation process. The duration of the sessions depends on the age of the child and the serial number of the massage procedure in the cycle.
So, for a child under 5 years old, the first massage procedure should not exceed 6 minutes, for children 5-7 years old - no more than 10 minutes.
Speech therapy massage for dysarthria is contraindicated if:
- infectious diseases of the oral cavity;
- labial herpes;
- gag reflex.
The massage is performed in two main positions: lying and sitting. First, you should do a short warm-up for the neck and facial muscles. Next, the activity involves rotating the child’s tongue in two directions: clockwise and counterclockwise.
Then, using your index finger, make twisting movements, slightly stretching your tongue forward. In order to achieve the best result and make the tongue muscles more mobile, it is recommended to use special devices - speech therapy probes.
Massage for stuttering
Stuttering in children is usually associated with neurotic or physiological problems. In addition to articulatory gymnastics and general strengthening exercises, speech therapy massage is successfully used. The area to be massaged includes the upper back and chest, neck, shoulders and head.
Based on the type of impact, a distinction is made between segmental massage, which consists of massaging articulatory muscles, and acupressure (acupressure), which affects biologically active zones.
Segmental massage includes the following manipulations:
- stroking, starting and ending the session;
- rubbing, activating blood circulation and stimulating metabolic processes in the body;
- kneading, activating muscle processes;
- vibration affecting muscle tone;
- pressure that stimulates metabolic processes.
Acupressure massage for stuttering affects the speech center, reducing its excitability. This is one of the most suitable types of massage at home, requiring only a short internship with a specialist. Acupressure works similar to acupuncture. Using your fingers, pressure of varying strength is applied to points located in the forearm, cervical region and face.
It is necessary to carry out 12 massage sessions over three weeks.
Speech therapy massage for children with stuttering at home is carried out in addition to a set of measures aimed at eliminating the disease (general strengthening procedures, professional help psychotherapist to identify the causes of stuttering).
Massage for ZRR
Speech therapy massage for children at home can help children with delayed speech development. It is usually indicated for older children preschool age whose articulation skills are not age appropriate. But You can start giving speech therapy massage to your child from infancy.
In this case, speech therapy massage will have a general therapeutic effect and will have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, which can serve as a powerful stimulus for the development of articulation skills. The massage consists of actions aimed at points of the face, mouth and neck; exercises take place in a relaxed atmosphere in the form of a game.
Regular classes include a set of massage movements that vary in intensity.
Massage technique:
| Zone | Movements | Multiplicity of execution |
| Lips | Intensive kneading with fingers in the direction from the middle of the mouth to the cheeks Vibration and tapping with fingertips | 5 |
| Neck | Turning the head from left to right, forward and backward Gentle stroking | 6 |
| Language | Light stroking Light vibration and tapping Stretching | 6 |
Speech therapy massage for cerebral palsy
When working with children with cerebral palsy, the following types of speech therapy massage are most appropriate:
- Classical
- Spot
Objectives of speech therapy massage for children with cerebral palsy:
- act on nerves and muscles to stimulate the development of the nervous system;
- stimulate physical activity;
- improve autonomic function;
- improve blood circulation.
Motor alalia
With the help of massage for motor alalia, you can achieve the following results:
- improving the functioning of the articulatory apparatus;
- decreased muscle tone;
- coordination of movement of facial muscles and tongue;
- increased tissue sensitivity;
- reduction of salivation.
The massage is performed with the fingers; its duration is 10-20 sessions. The technique includes tapping the lips, pressing, and circular movements along the cheeks.
Paresis
Massage for facial nerve paresis is prescribed after the patient has undergone a thorough examination, including consultations with a neurologist, ophthalmologist, and therapist. In this case, massage is prescribed in combination with therapeutic exercises. Facial massage for paresis improves blood circulation on the affected side of the face, restores muscle function, and prevents contractures.
The peculiarity of massage for this disease is that it is necessary to increase the muscle tone of the articulatory muscles. The first week of sessions is carried out only on the healthy part of the face. At the second stage, actions are redirected to the affected side, while limiting movements for the healthy area of the face.
Apply rubbing and kneading massage movements.
The methods acceptable in this case include:
- stroking;
- very light vibrations;
- light friction;
- gentle kneading.
FFNR
Children suffering from phonetic-phonemic underdevelopment are also at risk of dyslexia and dysgraphia, so it is important to promptly begin a set of activities, including home massage. With FFNR, sounds are distorted, replaced, omitted; sounds are poorly distinguished in the speech stream.
Speech therapy massage for children, carried out at home, can make articulation clearer and improve and automate pronunciation. This type of massage does not require special speech therapy tools. A tablespoon is used, less often a toothbrush.
Spoon massage technique for phonetic-phonemic underdevelopment:
- stroking along the tongue with the convex side;
- pressing on the central part of the tongue with the inside;
- rolling from the base to the tip of the tongue;
- pushes with the convex part from side to side;
- tapping with the tip of a spoon.
Features of massage at home
When carrying out correction speech therapy work with a child with a speech disorder, speech therapy massage acts as an addition to classes with a speech therapist, speech pathologist, reflexology and drug therapy. To carry out speech therapy massage at home, you should consult a speech therapist or undergo a short-term internship.
A special feature of performing massage at home is that no speech therapy devices (probes) are used.
At home, massage can be done using toothbrushes or spoons of different sizes. It should be noted that such procedures cannot be carried out daily, as excessive irritation or even damage to the mucous membrane and tissues is possible. Speech therapists recommend massage with spoons and brushes every other day.
The procedure is carried out in a ventilated room in a comfortable environment for the child. After eating, at least two hours should pass.
Warm-up before speech therapy massage
The goals of warming up before speech therapy massage are:
- creating an emotional mood;
- warming up the muscles before massage;
- preparing the speech apparatus for massage;
- stimulated blood circulation;
- activation of metabolic processes.
Warm up for a few minutes every day. Speech therapy warm-up consists of breathing exercises and logorhythmic tasks to activate facial muscles. An exercise that stimulates a child’s facial expressions is an imitation game.
Video with an example of an exercise for developing facial expressions:
The child portrays the characters specified by the speech therapist or parent using facial expressions. Gymnastics for the articulatory apparatus is also an element of speech therapy warm-up. The child is asked to do exercises to warm up the facial muscles.
Gymnastics actions include: retraction of the cheeks, a wide smile, movements of the lips and tongue.
Types of speech therapy massage:
- classic massage; consists of two types of effects: relaxing and stimulating;
- acupressure type of massage; affects those parts of the body where nerve endings and blood vessels are concentrated;
- hardware massage; requires the use of vibration and vacuum tools;
- probe type; carried out using speech therapy probes;
- massage with spoons; carried out using tablespoons, tea spoons, and children's silicone spoons.
- brush massage; carried out using parts of a toothbrush.
Classic speech therapy massage
Classic techniques include 4 main actions: rubbing, vibration, kneading and light stroking. The choice of techniques depends on the goals of the massage. If the goal is to relax the muscles, then stroking is used. If it is necessary to activate the work of the articulatory muscles, then the massage is carried out with energetic and intense vibrations, rubbing, and kneading.
Massage is carried out both with fingers and massage spatulas, nipples.
Hardware massage
The goals of this massage complex are:
- elimination of manifestations of speech dysfunctions, motor alalia, delayed speech development;
- normalization of muscle tone;
- improving the pronunciation skills of the articulatory apparatus.
Hardware speech therapy massage at home requires speech therapy massagers that affect tissue with high-frequency vibrations. These instruments have removable parts and can have both a relaxing and activating effect on the muscles of the speech apparatus.
The results of hardware speech therapy massage are longer lasting than with manual massage.
Acupressure
The purpose of acupressure speech therapy massage is to influence acupuncture zones (BAP). Biologically active points contain clusters of nerve endings, massage stimulation of which causes a response. To detect active zones and points, you should move along the massage area with sliding movements.
Ripple serves as evidence of detection of BAP.
If muscle tone is increased, an inhibitory type of massage is used with a relaxing effect. In this case, smoothing movements are made with the pads of the fingers. If the tone is reduced, then a stimulating type of massage is indicated. Rhythmic and energetic movements are used to press and rub the active point.
Probe massage
Author of the technique E.V. Novikova has developed 8 speech therapy probes, with the help of which the speech therapist acts on the main areas of the face: lips, tongue, cheekbones and cheeks. The probes have different shapes, function and impact. Using a set of probes, you can activate and relax muscles, relieve spasms, increase or decrease muscle tone.
Probe massage has a beneficial effect on the child’s speech and nervous system.
Massage with a toothbrush
This type massage consists of the massage effects of a speech therapist on the child’s tongue using an individual toothbrush and napkin. The child's tongue is fixed with a napkin, and a toothbrush massages the tongue. The movements are accompanied by poetry reading and fairy tale therapy.
This massage is indicated for children with weak muscles and low tongue tone. At home, this massage serves as an alternative to probe speech therapy massage. It is important to massage the longitudinal muscles and the transverse muscle of the tongue.
Massage with spoons
Massage with spoons is an effective way to correct speech defects. This type of massage is performed by a speech therapist or a parent with the participation of the child himself. The child is given 2 spoons in both hands, and he repeats the movements shown by the adult. All exercises are performed while reading poetry.
The poem contains instructions, describes the order and method of performing the exercise. Movements include rubbing, pressing, tapping various parts spoons (handle, convex side, inner side)
Home massage results
Speech therapy massage for children, performed at home, can cause a beneficial change in the state of the muscular system.
There is also progress in the development of the child’s nervous system. If speech therapy massage is performed for children with speech disorders, activation of muscles that previously had insufficient contractile strength is observed; with spasms and increased tone, a pronounced relaxing effect is observed.
Article format: E. Chaikina
Useful video about speech therapy massage for children
A story about effective acupressure for speech development in a child with cerebral palsy: