Selective Mutism and Other Anxiety Disorders

Selective Mutism (SM) is a disorder of childhood characterized by the total lack of speech in at least one specific situation, despite that ability to speak in other situations.

Educating yourself about SM and understanding your child’s world is critical to successful treatment. Many parents who find that their child does not speak in school may be quite certain their child’s symptoms match that diagnosis for SM, but be sure to have a complete evaluation to include every detail of your child’s situation. The articles on this page have helpful information in identifying and understanding SM.

• Classroom Strategies for Teachers of SM Children
• What Parents Can Do if They Suspect that Their Child Has Selective Mutism
• The Do's and Don't's for Parents