SElective mutism and home schooling? Good or bad idea??

Hiya all,

I just wanted your opinions about home educating a child who has selective mutism. What are your thoughts? Is it good as the child is not really achieving anything in school and is really anxious all the time, hates going to bed as he knows hes got to go to school the following day. Therefore, surely, to prevent the poor childs extreme anxiety and discomfort, we should home school him?
But then, what about his skills that he can only learn at school? such as interaction, socialisation, playing with peers, sharing etc. That will be compromised...What do you think??

Hi, ashley_a! Have you asked his doctor or a child psych? Stick around, hopefully people will talk about their experiences and thoughts on the topic.

hi there,
i think it is a good idea, i suffered through bullying and depression at school because of my selective mutism, and i feel that being homeschooled gave me a chance to get the help i needed, i dont feel that it affected my education either seeing as i am now at college, i guess my advice is talk to a professional about this, selective mutism wont go away on its own so its important to get your child help as soon as possible. hope this helps you

ditto on what chaz said, I was homeschooled and avoided a little bit more bullying than I had already received by not being in that school environment everyday.
Now that I'm older and have an over-achiever's attitude, I have worked through a lot of what was extreme social anxiety.
Homeschooling gave me the chance to learn about myself and my interests, and as soon as I grew up I found like-minded people to interact with.
That is the key I found, just get him with a group of people who like the same things and most likely he will have a better time making friends.

One year already?

I think homeschooling is a good idea. If the child goes to school, he/she might learn that socialization is bad because of the negative reinforcement he/she would probably receive. Going to school might ultimately reinforce, rather than help the child get over his/her anxiety.