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GUIDE
FOR SCHOOLS
Help students communicate and participate at school.
A student with selective mutism may speak comfortably in some settings yet be unable to speak in others. At school, this can affect learning, relationships, and access to help.
THE SCHOOL PATTERN
WHO WE SERVE
Ages 3–24
CARE FORMAT
100% virtual
YOUR ROLE
Notice, support, coordinate
PROFESSIONAL GUIDES
WHAT TO NOTICE AT SCHOOL
Document the pattern across the school day.
Selective mutism may appear as silence, freezing, avoidance, or reliance on gestures and writing when speech is expected.
01
Speech changes by person or setting
The student may speak with a preferred peer or in one setting, but not with teachers, groups, or in other parts of school.
02
Participation is affected
The student may avoid presentations, groups, attendance responses, asking for help, or other speaking tasks.
03
Other communication is easier
The student uses gestures, writing, or a trusted adult to communicate.
04
Speaking demands increase difficulty
The student may freeze, look away, or become unable to respond when expected to speak.
SUPPORTING PARTICIPATION
Make communication possible while speaking skills develop.
Use predictable routines and agreed-upon response options, then coordinate with the treatment plan as speaking goals are introduced gradually.
1
Recognize the pattern
Understand the behavior as anxiety-related rather than defiant.
2
Offer response options
Allow agreed-upon options such as pointing, writing, or choosing from responses while the team follows a gradual speaking plan.
3
Share observations
Give the family specific examples and recommend evaluation when the pattern is persistent or affects functioning.
COORDINATING WITH SCHOOL
Connect treatment to the school day.
Braverly works with families and school teams to translate treatment goals into practical supports and communication practice at school.
02
Support school staff
We provide practical guidance for using manageable participation and speaking steps consistently.
03
Review progress together
We coordinate with the school team, learn what is working, and adjust strategies as the student builds skills.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions from school professionals
What to know about referrals, school planning, and resources.
Help the family understand the pattern and next step.
Share specific school observations and Braverly’s information about referral fit and current availability.