Understanding Selective Mutism: How Speech Therapy Helps Children Find Their Voice

Some children speak freely at home but go completely silent in school or social settings. This isn’t just shyness—it may be a condition called selective mutism. In Phnom Penh, many families are unfamiliar with this diagnosis, but with the right support, children with selective mutism can make tremendous progress.

At OrbRom Center, we specialize in helping children overcome the communication barriers caused by selective mutism. Through gentle, personalized speech therapy, we guide children toward confident and consistent verbal interaction.

What Is Selective Mutism?

Selective mutism is an anxiety-based communication disorder. Children with this condition can speak in comfortable environments but are unable to speak in certain settings or with specific people—often despite wanting to.

Common signs include:

• Speaking only at home but not at school

• Freezing or avoiding eye contact when asked a question

• Using gestures instead of words in unfamiliar places

• Being labeled “shy” or “stubborn” despite strong language skills at home

• Crying or showing distress in social situations

In Phnom Penh, where classroom expectations are rising, this condition is sometimes misunderstood. Early identification and intervention are key.

How OrbRom Center Supports Children with Selective Mutism

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our therapists create a safe, predictable environment where children feel emotionally supported. Our approach includes:

• Gradual exposure to speaking situations, starting with nonverbal participation

• Comfort-building activities like play therapy, drawing, and whispering

• Parent and teacher training to avoid pressure and support communication

• Visual supports and confidence-building scripts

• Consistent routines that reduce anxiety triggers

Our goal is not to “force” speech—but to support trust, reduce fear, and build communication skills step by step.

Tips for Parents and Teachers in Phnom Penh

If you suspect selective mutism, avoid drawing attention to the child’s silence. Instead:

• Praise participation of any kind (e.g., pointing, nodding)

• Allow the child to warm up in new settings without pressure

• Give choices that don’t require verbal responses at first

• Avoid punishing or labeling the behavior

• Consult a speech therapist experienced with anxiety-based communication challenges

We’re here to partner with schools and families to provide a team-based solution.

Visit our Phnom Penh center using this Google Maps link.

Final Thought

Selective mutism is not about defiance or laziness—it’s about fear. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we help children find their voice with patience, understanding, and expert guidance. If your child is silent in some settings, we can help turn that silence into speech.