by tallis » Mon Nov 18, 2013 6:39 pm
Hi,
The name of what you are looking for is "selective mutism". It is generally an anxiety based problem, although the child can not usually put in to words, what is wrong or what is causing it.
I suffered from this as a young child, I remember dealing with it at the age of 4. Although I would deal with social phobias, ocd, and some other stuff, as I got older, the selective mutism got better with out any "treatment", although public speaking can still put me right back there. As an adult, I still waiver trying to introduce myself to a room full of people, but manage to power through it, (because I have to).
Here is what I would suggest for the child (not sure of the age).
Do not focus on it, this makes it worse, they have a hard enough time trying to speak with out being made to feel like they are "bad" for not speaking. Most times they don't know why they "just cant".
Keep your eyes open for other signs of anxiety, ocd type behaviors.
Encourage drawing, writing, and allowing the child to observe situations (even without partaking) as much as they are comfortable with.
Selective mutism often feels like all eyes are on you, judging you, laughing at you. Its common to just freeze. (its not controllable). Let the child know its OK to freeze, not the end of the world, maybe some grounding techniques?
Patience is necessary, as is NOT JUDGING.
Often children feel not as judged by animals, having a child read to dogs is a good way to build confidence. Maybe talk to your local animal shelter. Reading to a "stranger" dog, might help, as opposed to a well known pet.
People who struggle with this as a child can and do lead normal productive lives!
Maybe , depending on the age, let them know that other people deal with it too, and it works out just fine. I know I felt like I was the only one, which made anxiety worse.
Wish I had more for you, but know that this , although a challenge, can turn out ok.