Do you know a child who speaks freely at home but does not utter a word in school or social situations? The child is not refusing to speak; he or she most likely has selective mutism. Read more about this rare disorder and the treatment techniques that can help.
Selective Mutism
Yes, I've known two students who suffered from selective mutism. It was baffling to the teachers.
Lori,
Several years ago I successfully treated a kindergarten age boy with this....that case sparked my article topic!
I was also so happy to get an email from a social worker (she is following me on Facebook). She read the article and was thrilled to find more techniques to use with a selective mutism case she is currently working with.
Congratulations, Dr. Hershey. That is great news.
I will forward your article to my teacher friend.