Selective mutism

Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that makes a person unable to speak to certain people or in certain situations. It is different to non-verbal ASD and it is not just shyness, it is much more difficult to live with. People affected with selective mutism can be unable to ask for help even in very hard situations, to refuse consent or express their simpliest needs (for water, food, bathroom break, etc.) and they are unfortunately easy targets for bullies. This can lead parents to avoid leaving their children to extra-curricular activities, to school sometimes or just to regular activities families can have during a holiday. The progressive isolation works like a vicious circle of anxiety, avoidance, exclusion and trauma. Here, special care is given to these students and courses are organized in a safe environment, with special resources, special activities allowing them to express themselves at their own pace or even just to enjoy themselves.