Understanding Selective Mutism: Advice for Parents
Dr. Lindsay Bergman, a clinical psychologist at the UCLA Care Center and UCLA Pediatric OCD Intensive Outpatient Program, offers guidance for parents of children with selective mutism, or those suspecting it.
Avoiding Speaking for the Child
A common tendency for parents is to speak for their child, but this should be avoided. Parents often do this to ease the child's distress or alleviate the awkwardness of silence. However, refraining from speaking for the child is crucial to encourage them to speak independently.
If you feel compelled to say something, a simple statement like, "I don't think he or she is going to answer right now," is preferable. The goal is to avoid "rescuing" the child and instead fostering opportunities for them to speak.
Creating Supportive Environments
Parents can actively create situations that increase the likelihood of their child speaking.
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Playdates with Familiar Peers: If the child is more comfortable speaking with a specific peer, invite that peer over for a playdate.
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Games Encouraging Minimal Speech: Choose activities, like board games where they can count spaces, which require minimal speech but allow them to vocalize. This small step can be a significant first hurdle.
Gradual Exposure and Family Support
Introduce family members gradually to encourage interaction. If the child struggles to speak to a particular family member, start with the easiest one.
- Indirect Communication: The child could even begin by talking to their parent in front of the family member, making it a slightly less challenging step.
The key is to build a series of exercises that are challenging but achievable. This approach mirrors therapy techniques and can be effective for milder cases of selective mutism when practiced at home.
Seeking Professional Help
For further information about selective mutism or to find a professional to work with, please visit carecenter.ucla.edu.