Breaking the silence: Living with selective mutism

Replying to @Mar Social Anxiety vs Selective Mutism vs Being Naturally Shy 🤔 All involve hesitation or quietness, but they are not the same, and none are a choice. Being Naturally Shy: • Soft-spoken or shy by nature • Can speak in all situations, just may take time to warm up • Temporary nervousness, usually short-lived❤️ Social Anxiety: • Fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations • Child can speak, but avoids talking or interacting due to anxiety • Affects many soci

My son Seb is 6 and has selective mutism. He’s in Year 1 at a mainstream primary school. Selective mutism is an anxiety-based condition, not shyness, not defiance, and not something a child can “just get over.” For a long time, Seb didn’t speak to school staff at all. With patience, understanding, and the right support, he’s now speaking to familiar adults and even a parent volunteer during 1:1 reading. Progress with SM is slow and quiet, but every step matters. Sharing this for awareness and fo