Selective Autism

We have a student who has been in the school for 3 years. She is presently in 2nd grade. Appear happy, joins in all activities, but will not speak.  She does speak at home and we have used video to assess her academically.  Do we just continue being patient, and continue including her in all activities and hope that one day she will speak in school?

[jdtm]

First of all, you are dealing with Selective Mutism.  This is a severe form of anxiety - probably social phobia - it has absolutely nothing to do with traits on the autistic spectrum.  The best site on the internet for information is "selectivemutism.org" and I would suggest you read the FAQ's on that site.  But, you are in luck today and I hope you read this reply within an hour or so.  Tonight on 20/20 (I think it is on ABC) there is a segment on Selective Mutism which should give more insight into this disorder.

In order for this child to learn to speak, she needs treatment (by Grade 2 the mutism is starting to become ingrained).  Her parents need to contact their family doctor to get a referral for a child psychiatrist, child psychologist, developmental pediatrician or neurologist or any medical person with experience in anxiety disorders.  Can you call her parents and inform them about this TV special?  I wish you the best ...