Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder that affects a child's ability to speak in specific social situations, despite being able to speak comfortably in others. It's crucial to remember that overcoming this disorder takes time and patience. Children typically respond best to behavioral therapy designed to help them gradually speak in new environments, during new activities, and with different people.
Key Principles
When supporting a child with selective mutism, always remember to be patient and understanding. Avoid putting pressure on them to speak, as this can increase their anxiety. Behavioral therapy techniques are often effective in prompting and reinforcing successful speech.
Specialized Behavior Therapy Techniques
Here are five specialized behavior therapy techniques that can be used to support a child with selective mutism:
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Wait 5 Seconds: After asking a question, give the child at least five seconds to respond. Resist the urge to repeat the question or allow someone else to answer for them. This allows the child time to process their anxiety and formulate a response.
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Labeled Praise: Use specific praise instead of general statements. For example, instead of saying "Great job," say "Great job asking for a cup." This helps the child understand what they are being praised for and encourages them to repeat the desired behavior.
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Rephrase the Question: Begin by asking questions that encourage a verbal response. Instead of yes/no questions (which can be answered with a nod), offer choices, such as "Would you like a dog sticker or a star sticker?" As the child becomes more comfortable, transition to open-ended questions like "What do you want to play next?".
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Practice Echoing: Echoing involves repeating or paraphrasing what the child says. This confirms that you have understood them. This technique is especially helpful for children who speak quietly or in large groups, where they may not be easily heard.
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Be a Sportscaster: Provide a play-by-play description of what the child is doing, such as "You're drawing a flower" or "I see you're pointing to the picture in the book." This commentary communicates your interest and can be a helpful strategy when the child is being nonverbal.