Selective Mutism is a childhood anxiety disorder characterized by an inability to speak in various settings. The most anxiety-provoking environment is usually the school. These children are able to speak at home and in settings where they feel comfortable, secure, and relaxed. However, this anxiety significantly impacts the ability for the child to participate in both social and academic environments.

Does my child have Selective Mutism?

• Does the child have difficulty talking to new people?
• Does the child avoid speaking with familiar adults or peers, even when they are well-liked?
• Does this silence continue despite a “warm-up” period?
• Does the mutism get in the way of classroom participation, such as raising hand to answer questions, giving presentations, and asking for help?
• Does it appear as if there are two sides to your child – the outgoing child when comfortable and the frozen, anxious child in public/at school?
• Have these issues continued past the first month of school?

If several of these symptoms sound like your child, then you may consider a diagnosis of Selective Mutism. Children with Selective Mutism do not “grow out of it.” If left untreated, it can lead to increases in anxiety, social anxiety, school refusal, loneliness, and depression. However, treatment can be very effective – get help today!

Learn more about our summer and winter intensives and highly specialized programs for selective mutism Confident Kids Camp DC Metro for Selective Mutism

SM Services Infographic by Lindsay Scharfstein

Resources:

• Selective Mutism Association website (a nonprofit dedicated to resources for parents, providers, and educators on SM)
• Selective Mutism University: free, online course (with do’s and don’ts videos):
• Educational Books about Selective Mutism
• Resources for Schools and Educators
• Educational Videos on Selective Mutism
• Non-English Resources
• FIU Virtual Fade-in Video
• Mock Fade-in Video
• Selective Mutism Training Institute for Caregivers via Selective Mutism Association
• Facebook groups: Parents of Children with Selective Mutism; Parents of Teens with Selective Mutism; Teachers of Children with Selective Mutism