Young, Gifted and... selectively mute

 Parenting for High Potential yet again has published a volume of remarkable insight and helpfulness for parenting different types of children who are gifted. The latest edition focuses on 2e children- children who are both gifted and struggle with a learning difference of some sort. The article that struck me as remarkable harkens back to a student I worked with years ago who was selectively mute and the challenge I had finding resources to help.  Fortunately my student wasn't gifted because literature on how to best support students who are both gifted and selectively mute is virtually nonexistent. Laura Giuliana Neher wrote "Young, Gifted and ... Selectively Mute?!" Unsurprisingly many teachers feel that a gifted child cannot be selectively mute. Similarly giftedness might mask mutism. Careful observation, however, reveals the giftedness of a child who cannot talk. Of critical importance, treatment should begin as early as possible. One noted study by Bergman, Gonzales, Piacentini and Keller showed improvement over 5 months only in children receiving treatment. 

The author advocates for 8 intervention tips which are useful for any student with selective mutism, not just those who are gifted.

1. Instead of open ended questions, ask forced choice questions. ex. Do you want the yellow or green paint?

2. Instead of rescuing the child, acknowledge non-verbal behavior and provide wait time. ex. I see you looking at the cookies. Wait 7 sec for a response, then if needed, rephrase a s a yes/no response.

3. Model and practice exchanges before needing to do them. Provide a script for the exchange.

4. Instead of insulating the child from social interactions, gradually desensitize them. Praise brave talking. ex. We will go and you need to greet two people and then I will talk. Then  you need to greet and ask a question. Then you need to greet and ask two questions or complete a conversation circle.

5. Create forced choice questions and enlist friendly conspirators to help by giving them questions to ask. Involve other people.

6.Use low pressure and lots of encouragement and reinforcement.

7. Gradually develop trust and comfort. Use PRIDE during play time: Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe and Enjoy.

8. Prepare to educate others and yourself. Use the Selective Mutism Educator ToolKit or Toolkit for Caregivers to prepare teachers and others for your child.