9 Tips for Caring for Your Teacher Voice
As a teacher your voice is your most precious resource. I can’t even number the days that I couldn’t go to work simply because my throat was too sore. I didn’t necessarily feel unwell (at least not enough to stay home from school) but without a voice I was useless, so resting my voice was wise.
Do you know how to care for your voice? Here are a few tips and tricks I have learnt over the years (as well as some that I have researched), to keep that voice box working for years to come!
The Technical Stuff
Your voice is produced when your brain is stimulated. The flow of breath from your lungs causes the vocal folds in your larynx to vibrate. The vibrations resonate in the space of the the throat, mouth and nose and become your voice. Voice training is an excellent way to prolong the life of your voice.
Voice Care Tips
- Your throat cannot stay too dry – keep your voice moist with plenty of water. NOT ALCOHOL ;P
- When you are talking breathe through your nose – this helps to filter and humidify the air. NOT THROUGH YOUR MOUTH!
- Try not to talk for too long at any one time – enjoy your breaks and rest the voice as often as possible.
- Raising your voice causes damage to the tissues of the larynx so quiet voices are good.
- Don’t cough and clear our throat habitually, drink water and clear the throat gently.
- If you have a cold or flu avoid talking as much as you can.
- Tip for the ladies (boys can block their ears!). During the premenstrual period your voice can be prone to sensitivity. Take extra care within this period by drinking lots of water, limited alcohol and lots of downtime.
- Beware of the following irritants: caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, antihistamines, diuretics, cocaine and marijuana, vitamin C, cigarette smoke.
- The only way to use any of the above is in moderation, with lots of water.
I truly hope this helps you and your voice function for many years to come!
If you have any other tips or tricks, add them in the comments below.
Happy teaching!
