7 out of 1000 kids have Selective Mutism (a social anxiety disorder in which they fail to speak in certain social situations, outside the home & especially in school). Children with Selective Mutism are not being defiant or manipulating; they are avoiding the very thing that gives them such anxiety. They actually become incapable of speaking in certain situations.
As a teacher, speech pathologist and a mother of two children with Selective Mutism (one of whom has overcome it), I know first hand of the terrible anxiety and alienation they are going through. Currently, there are no Selective Mutism programs offered within our public schools. These children who are seen as "shy", fall through the cracks, are sometimes put into self-contained classes & special education classes, even programs for Autistic children, where their needs are still not met. If not treated properly, selective mutism can go into adulthood. Many selective mutes become depressed, turn to drugs or even suicide. Selective Mutism is highly misunderstood and misdiagnosed.
My goal is to start a pilot program (eventually one per school district), in which all teachers receive training and each district has a point person (a highly trained professional in the field of Selective Mutism) to develop individualized plans & goals for each selectively mute student, implement the plans in the school and work with the student's therapists, teachers, related service providers and the family.
Please sign the petition to let our Department of Education and politicians know that you demand Selective Mutism programs in our schools.
Dear Chancellor and Senator:
I demand that The NYC Department of Education implement Selective Mutism programs in our schools. Selective Mutism affects 7 out of every 1000 kids. Our selectively mute children deserve a fair and equal opportunity education.
Sincerely,
