At what age do children typically transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern?

From the Guidelines

Children typically transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern between 1 to 2 years of age, as the rib cage contribution to tidal breathing reaches a value that approximates that reported in adolescents during non-REM sleep. This shift occurs gradually as a child's respiratory system matures. In early childhood, babies and young children primarily use their diaphragm for breathing, which appears as belly movement during respiration. As they grow, the chest and intercostal muscles develop more strength and coordination, leading to increased thoracic (chest) breathing.

Key Points

• The transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern is a natural part of physiological development 1.
• The rib cage contribution to tidal breathing increases significantly between 1 to 2 years of age, reaching a value similar to that in adolescents during non-REM sleep 1.
• This developmental change happens naturally without requiring any intervention.
• Some children may retain elements of diaphragmatic breathing longer than others, which is generally not concerning.
• The breathing pattern evolution is part of normal physiological development and doesn't require medical treatment or specific exercises to encourage the change.

Developmental Considerations

• In early childhood, the diaphragm appears flattened with a very wide angle of insertion on the rib cage, resulting in the absence of an area of apposition 1.
• The orientation of the ribs does not change substantially until the infant assumes the upright posture, and there is progressive mineralization of the ribs 1.
• Changes in shape and structure with advancing postnatal age play a central role in stiffening the rib cage 1.

From the Research

Breathing Patterns in Pediatrics

• The transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern in children is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• However, it is known that children typically use belly breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, until they develop a more adult-like breathing pattern.
• The age at which this transition occurs is not specified in the provided studies, but it is generally understood to happen as children grow and develop.

Factors Influencing Breathing Patterns

• Breathing patterns in children can be influenced by various factors, including respiratory conditions such as asthma 3, 4, 6.
• Studies have shown that breathing exercises can be beneficial for children with asthma, improving symptoms and lung function 3, 4, 6.
• However, the provided studies do not specifically address the transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern in children.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Breathing-Related Conditions

• The diagnosis and treatment of breathing-related conditions, such as ineffective breathing pattern, can be complex and require a comprehensive approach 2, 5.
• Nurses and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in identifying and managing breathing-related conditions in children, using techniques such as breathing exercises and other interventions 2, 5.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the transition from belly breathing to a more adult-like breathing pattern in children and to develop effective strategies for promoting healthy breathing habits.