Supporting My Child Who Doesn’t Talk in Some Situations

More about supporting my child who doesn’t talk in some situations

Sometimes, a child can chat easily at home but find it very hard to speak in other places, like school or with people they don’t know well. This is often called selective mutism, which means the child is able to talk but feels unable to in certain situations. It is more than just shyness and can last longer or feel harder to overcome.

This can happen for different reasons. Many children who experience this feel anxious or worried about speaking, especially in new or busy environments. Changes, pressure to talk, or fear of getting things wrong can make it even harder for them to use their voice.

As a parent or carer, this can feel confusing and upsetting. You might wonder why your child is quiet in some places but talkative in others, or worry about how it affects their friendships and learning. It can also feel frustrating if others don’t understand what your child is going through.

It’s a good idea to seek help if your child regularly struggles to speak in certain situations and this is not improving over time. Getting advice early can help you understand what’s happening and find gentle ways to support your child, so they can feel more confident and comfortable communicating.