Step-by-Step Guide: Vibration Techniques for Speech Therapy

Vibration Techniques for Speech Therapy: Vibration techniques can be a valuable tool in speech therapy, particularly when targeting voice production, resonance, articulation, and oral-motor function. These techniques are often used by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to stimulate sensory input, improve muscle tone, and facilitate better motor planning for speech.

🕒 Duration: 1–2 minutes per activity (total 10–15 minutes daily)
🔒 Always supervise your child and ensure all tools are clean and safe.

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10 Vibration Techniques for Speech Therapy

1. Electric Toothbrush

🟢 Purpose: Provides gentle oral vibration to increase sensory awareness.
Steps:

• Turn on a soft-bristle vibrating toothbrush.
• Gently touch the child’s lips, then cheeks, then tongue (5–10 seconds each).
• Watch for comfort—stop if the child pulls away.

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2. Humming Toy

🟢 Purpose: Vibrates facial muscles to stimulate awareness.
Steps:

• Use a small toy massager or vibrating toy.
• Place it gently on each cheek for 10 seconds.
• You can also try it under the chin or jawline.

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3. Lip Buzzing (“Brrr”)

🟢 Purpose: Helps with lip closure and airflow.
Steps:

• Say “Brrrrr” while letting your lips vibrate.
• Let your child feel the vibration by touching your lips.
• Encourage them to imitate the sound.

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4. Spoon Vibration

🟢 Purpose: Provides light touch stimulation.
Steps:

• Tap a metal spoon gently on a table to cause vibration.
• Lightly touch the vibrating spoon on the child’s lips or cheek.
• Do for 5 seconds per area.

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5. Finger Vibration (Zzzz Sound)

🟢 Purpose: Adds fun to touch-based awareness.
Steps:

• Wiggle two fingers and say “Zzzz” like a bee near their cheek.
• Gently press the cheek while doing it.
• Repeat on both sides, 2–3 times.

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6. Massage Roller (Optional)

🟢 Purpose: Relaxes jaw and cheek muscles.
Steps:

• If you have a baby-safe mini massage roller, turn it on.
• Roll it gently over the cheeks and jawline in circles.
• Use for 10–15 seconds per side.

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7. Blow Toy Vibration

🟢 Purpose: Combines blowing and vibration.
Steps:

• Use a vibrating whistle or sound-making blow toy.
• Blow into it first, let your child feel it vibrate.
• Allow your child to try blowing into it.

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8. Tongue Tickler

🟢 Purpose: Stimulates the tongue gently.
Steps:

• Use a soft vibrating toothbrush or teether.
• Lightly touch the tip and sides of the tongue for 2–3 seconds each.
• Be very gentle to avoid gag reflex.

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9. Cheek Press (“Mmm” Sound)

🟢 Purpose: Adds vibration and sound together.
Steps:

• Gently press both cheeks inward.
• Say “Mmmmmm” in a humming voice.
• Let the child try repeating the sound.

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10. Vibrating Straw (with Air)

🟢 Purpose: Focuses on lip and breath coordination.
Steps:

• Blow air gently through a straw while placing it on your lips.
• Let the straw make a light vibrating buzz.
• Let the child feel it, then try it themselves.

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✅ Parent Tips for Vibration Techniques for Speech Therapy

• Start slow and gentle — let your child get used to the sensation.
• Stop immediately if your child shows signs of discomfort or irritation.
• Make it a fun game: use sounds, songs, or playful actions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)