Does Selective Mutism Go Away on Its Own?

Parents often ask if selective mutism is something their child will grow out of. While there are occasional situations where speaking begins without formal support, much more often children with selective mutism need intervention for the pattern to change.

If a child has not been speaking in certain settings for more than a few months, it’s unlikely they will suddenly start speaking on their own. Over time, children can become more comfortable using nonverbal communication, and that avoidance gets reinforced. The longer a child goes without speaking in certain environments, the harder it can be to shift.

If you’re starting to notice this pattern, the best next step is to reach out to a professional who specializes in selective mutism. A specialist can help determine whether an evaluation makes sense and guide you toward appropriate support.

There are also a few things you can begin doing right away. Try not to jump in and speak for your child immediately. Give them a little more time to respond. Reducing pressure around talking is important, because pressure can make speaking feel even harder. Learning more about selective mutism can also help you better understand what your child is experiencing and how to support them.

I talk with many families who wonder if they should just wait it out, and I remember how confusing this stage can feel. In the vast majority of cases, with the right support, children with selective mutism do overcome this and go on to speak comfortably in the settings that once felt hardest.