Situational (selective) mutism in children

Some children may speak comfortably in certain environments but struggle to speak in others. This is often referred to as situational mutism (sometimes called selective mutism).

Research from Zanne Gaynor highlights that this is typically an anxiety-based response, rather than a refusal to communicate.

Children experiencing situational mutism may:

Speak freely at home but not at school
Communicate through gestures, writing or pointing instead of speech
Freeze or become very quiet when they feel observed
Avoid situations where they feel pressure to speak

It is important to understand that children with situational mutism want to communicate, but anxiety can make verbal communication feel overwhelming.

Helpful approaches:

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Reduce pressure to speak

Never force or demand verbal responses.

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Accept non-verbal communication

Gestures, writing and pointing are all valid.

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Allow written responses

Gives the child a safe alternative method to express themselves.

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Provide predictable routines