EP55 features a discussion between Dr E and Dr. Jenna Blum, a lead clinician at the SMart Center and the head of the SMart Center’s growing general mental health department, Counseling & Assessments.

In this episode, Dr. E and Dr. Jenna break down how to foster independence in elementary-aged children. They discuss how to encourage decision making, foster self-help skills, develop your child’s problem-solving abilities and more.

How to Encourage Decision-Making

Episode 55 begins with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jenna Blum discussing how building confidence and independence is crucial for shy children to improve communication and emotional growth. 

They highlight the impact of COVID-19 and technology on increasing dependence for children with Selective Mutism. Practical tips include offering choices in daily activities to help children with Selective Mutism make decisions and gain self-confidence. 

Parents are encouraged to look for opportunities where their children with Selective Mutism can make decisions to build their confidence.

Importance of Fostering Self-Help Skills

Dr. E and Dr. Jenna continue their discussion by emphasizing the importance of fostering self-help skills in children with Selective Mutism. To do this, they recommend breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. 

They discuss practical examples such as getting dressed, packing lunches, and cleaning up. It’s important for caregivers and parents to continue to be positive and provide encouragement throughout. Without the effort by parents, teachers and caregivers, children with Selective Mutism will have a harder time building self-help skills.

Moreover, Dr. E and Dr. Jenna mention that meeting children at their current level helps boost confidence and reduces anxiety. Routines and checklists are recommended to aid children with learning challenges, improving their executive functioning and communication.

Ways to Develop Your Child’s Problem-Solving Skills

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jenna Blum reach the middle of this episode when discussing how parents can help children with Selective Mutism build independence and problem-solving skills. 

They advise parents to let children handle tasks like packing bags and doing chores and to support these children in navigating social challenges. Specific strategies include creating chore charts, practicing communication skills, and gradually increasing responsibility in tasks. 

Again, like other sections of this episode, the goal is to boost confidence and self-help skills while addressing individual challenges.

The Importance of Planning and Routine

Dr. E and Dr. Jenna continue their discussion by discussing the coexisting challenges like neurodivergence and sensory issues in children with Selective Mutism. 

They also highlight the importance of time management skills through structured routines and visual aids to build confidence and independence while reducing anxiety.

How to Facilitate Your Child’s Independence at School

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jenna Blum wrap up the episode discussing supporting the curiosity and independence of children with Selective Mutism. 

They highlight focusing on children’s strengths and interests to build self-confidence and communication skills. Practical examples include math clubs and birdwatching. Parents are advised to gradually step back as children take more control, celebrating their progress and fostering independence.