CommuniCamp™ is a transformative group treatment program that helps children and teens with Selective Mutism (SM) and social communication anxiety build confidence, connection, and communication—step by step and without pressure. Guided by the S-CAT® model developed by Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, campers learn through real-world practice, playful engagement, and expert support.
🔑 Social Communication Skills
- How to progress across the Social Communication Bridge®, from nonverbal gestures to full verbal engagement
- Techniques to respond and initiate communication in a variety of situations (e.g., with peers, teachers, or in group activities)
- An understanding that communication isn’t just about talking, but also includes gestures, participation, effort, and expression
🧠 Understanding Anxiety & Their Communication Style
- What Selective Mutism really is, and that it’s not their fault
- How anxiety can affect their ability to speak
- That they are not alone—many others face similar challenges
- How to explain their SM to others in simple, empowering ways
🛠️ Coping Tools & Confidence Builders
- Identifying their feelings using the Feeling Chart
- Learning and practicing coping strategies like breathing exercises and calming techniques
- Building internal confidence through goal setting and visual trackers
🗣 Real-World Communication Practice
- Practicing Handover/Takeover™, Sandwich Questions™, Copy Back, and I Just/I Am Statements
- Opportunities to communicate in mock classrooms, lunch bunches, and play sessions
- Structured tasks in community-based simulations like ordering in a restaurant or playing games with peers
🤝 Peer Interaction & Social Connection
- Practicing greetings, starting conversations, and responding to peers
- Participating in fun, interest-based group games that build confidence without pressure
- Learning how to make and maintain friendships with scaffolded adult support
🎯 Goal Setting & Self-Awareness
- Creating individual goals and recognizing progress
- Celebrating brave moments—from waving hello to speaking out loud
- Developing a positive identity built on courage, effort, and self-understanding
What Children Gain from CommuniCamp™
✅ Increased comfort and confidence in social and communication-based situations
✅ Supportive peer experiences in a safe, understanding environment
✅ Opportunities to practice communication across the Social Communication Bridge®—from nonverbal to verbal stages
✅ Improved ability to engage in real-world settings like stores, restaurants, or small groups
✅ Development of coping strategies to manage anxiety and regulate emotions
✅ Structured opportunities for building friendships and social connections
✅ Motivation and empowerment through fun, interest-based activities
✅ Progress toward verbal communication through adult-facilitated and child-led experiences
✅ A sense of belonging by seeing other kids and teens with SM—and knowing they are not alone
