Posted by fires on April 30, 2005, at 20:53:40 [reposted on May 5, 2005, at 23:27:59 | original URL]
In reply to Re: Selective mutism article, posted by henrietta on April 30, 2005, at 20:29:54
> Thank you for this! I am working, as a volunteer, with a child who simply won't speak, will hardly ever smile, even with me bringing M&ms to teach colors (and to eat), even with m e doing insanely absurd vaudvillian renditions of the ABC song (dancing, singing)... Yes, there is a language problem, but I've worke3d with so many others with the same language problems who do respond...and learn quickly. She is so contained. She doesn't even speak when encouraged to do so in her first language....From what I know about her and her family I don't believe there are abuse issues. I don;t believe her problems with speaking can be solely attributed to her being a brand new immigrant stuck in an inappropriate school environment. (Which I have railed against to no avail). Frankly, I'm at my wit's end.... She doesn't speak in any of the 3 languages she undoubtedly comprehends. Well, she will speak, fearfully and almost inaudibly, if pressed, but then I feel I'm torturing her. (When I ask her to speak loudly enough for me to hear.)
> Sorry. This is of no use to anyone. Just want to say thanks for opening up another avenue to explore in my efforts to help this child.I'm curious if you have tried any paradoxical techniques? Like: You not speaking - just smiling and doing whatever else you might do to help her nonverbally. Also, have you tried telling her that you don't care if she doesn't speak?
poster:fires
thread:492261
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/child/20050226/msgs/494302.html