OP and others. DS, 10, has both anxiety and ADHD. The psychiatrist who manages his ADHD medication definitely felt he had selective mutism. He did therapy over time with a psychologist and also was on Prozac. When he was younger, he would not speak to most adults - at all. Even relatives. Both the psychiatrist and psychologist encouraged "exposure" - trying to get him to speak in certain situations. It's only in the past few months that we've seen a substantial change (even after stopping therapy and Prozac).

He, too, used to struggle in social situations with kids, and that's what improved first - substantially.

He now participates in class at school - although he does better in a small group than in front of the entire class. There was a recent student assembly where he had a speaking part and did it - although he was clearly nervous and mumbled his lines. It was really amazing to see. And he now speaks to adults in an audible tone of voice with more than one word answers.

He still has general anxiety, although it's very manageable (for now) and not interfering with activities. And sometimes, yes, he still is reluctant to talk.

Definitely get treatment -- it's not something that goes away on its own. Good luck, OP and others.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP,

Definitely find a Speech Therapist even if it's private. Even if your DD has anxiety that's causing the selective mutism, a ST can help. Definitely find one who makes it fun. It should feel like play even when it's therapy.

OP here. How will a speech therapist work with an SM child? I'm sorry for my ignorance. The advocate who is working with us to get an IEP mentioned we could try for an SLP to work with my daughter in her classroom. Would a private therapist also go into the school? Would her treatment be similar to the behavioral therapist's?

It's good that you're going for an IEP. A private therapist might observe her in the classroom but more likely your DD would be having therapy at their office about once a week. Take a look at the ASHA link for types of treatment. There are some Selective Mutism organizations listed as well.

17:01 here. The swing is a GREAT idea! You're also not limited to outdoor swings. You can get the hardware/swings at a therapy store (usually online) but you can also get them from Ikea http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/S19809351/ . I know they sell it at the Ikea in Woodbridge and they usually have a few hanging in the children's area near the restaurant. My kids love them.

I, too, am puzzled by the therapist's position on signing and cards. I know you said she was highly respected but I would think that if they enable your DD to communicate with others it would be a positive step - one that could be faded out over time. Sometimes a "crutch" is needed until you can do it on your own. That doesn't mean you're going to be using them the rest of your life. I've got a kid with apraxia of speech and have heard that same argument used but our therapists have been very supportive and encouraging of us signing and cards - which we have faded out. He will still sign when he's upset and not able to maintain articulation but it IS communication and that's what we're trying to promote.

Anonymous wrote:OP here. Thanks for the continued replies. And for all the hugs... I really need them right now!

To answer a few questions. My daughter's former therapist wasn't a fan of sign language and picture cards. She saw them as a crutch and excuse to not use words so discouraged their use except for using the bathroom and such emergency situations.

My daughter hasn't had any speech therapy and probably won't qualify for any as the school district assessment personnel heard her talk and consider her to have the ability to talk. Never mind that she can't in certain situations. They don't care about that! Is that something parents can seek out on their own?

My daughter also loves to swing! Unfortunately, our two neighborhood parks don't have any. I may look into getting a set for home. I'd never thought of itbeing therapeutic.

I am looking for a new treatment professional. The therapist we were working with is an SM expert and highly regarded in our area so I'm super bummed that it didn't work out. From what I hear, there's no one else like her here.

Thank you PP above for reminding me that treatment is a long process with many ups and downs. We've had such progress that I forget this. I think for now, we'll ease off the pressure and help her remember that it can be fun to just be around people and in public. She does still like to go out.

Speech begets speech. Any kind of speech. Sign language, augmented speech. The more your daughter communicates, the more likely she is to talk. This ST is way, way behind the times.

Anonymous wrote:OP,

Definitely find a Speech Therapist even if it's private. Even if your DD has anxiety that's causing the selective mutism, a ST can help. Definitely find one who makes it fun. It should feel like play even when it's therapy.

OP here. How will a speech therapist work with an SM child? I'm sorry for my ignorance. The advocate who is working with us to get an IEP mentioned we could try for an SLP to work with my daughter in her classroom. Would a private therapist also go into the school? Would her treatment be similar to the behavioral therapist's?

OP,

Definitely find a Speech Therapist even if it's private. Even if your DD has anxiety that's causing the selective mutism, a ST can help. Definitely find one who makes it fun. It should feel like play even when it's therapy.

OP here. Thanks for the continued replies. And for all the hugs... I really need them right now!

To answer a few questions. My daughter's former therapist wasn't a fan of sign language and picture cards. She saw them as a crutch and excuse to not use words so discouraged their use except for using the bathroom and such emergency situations.

My daughter hasn't had any speech therapy and probably won't qualify for any as the school district assessment personnel heard her talk and consider her to have the ability to talk. Never mind that she can't in certain situations. They don't care about that! Is that something parents can seek out on their own?

My daughter also loves to swing! Unfortunately, our two neighborhood parks don't have any. I may look into getting a set for home. I'd never thought of itbeing therapeutic.

I am looking for a new treatment professional. The therapist we were working with is an SM expert and highly regarded in our area so I'm super bummed that it didn't work out. From what I hear, there's no one else like her here.

Thank you PP above for reminding me that treatment is a long process with many ups and downs. We've had such progress that I forget this. I think for now, we'll ease off the pressure and help her remember that it can be fun to just be around people and in public. She does still like to go out.