EP57 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a live chat with parents at June 2025 CommuniCamp.

In the episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and three participating parents discuss each parent’s unique but relatable experiences they are going through with a child with Selective Mutism. 

The Role Adults Play in Helping Kids With Selective Mutism Speak

Episode 57 begins with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and four parents discussing their children’s unique but relatable situations with selective mutism

Each parent shares how they specifically help their child gain comfort, and Dr. E shares how the tools and tactics used at CommuniCamp help children with Selective Mutism.

Tips For Creating Comfort for Children with Selective Mutism

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and the four parents continue their discussion by suggesting ‘bags of props’ as a way to manage children’s separation anxiety and overall confidence-building efforts. 

Activities should avoid pressuring children, and parental emotions play a significant role. Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum advises parents to observe their children’s reactions in new environments.

How to Help Your Child Feel Safe in New Environments

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and four participating parents reach the middle of their discussion by breaking down methods to enhance social communication and confidence in children with selective mutism or developmental challenges. 

This clip highlights creating supportive environments, using visual aids, and preparing children for social interactions. Real-life success stories emphasize a whole-person approach and the progress seen by parents and therapists.

Helping Kids Connect Socially, Even When It’s Hard

In this segment, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and participating parents discuss the need for children with selective mutism to practice their communication skills. 

It’s not fair, as parents with a child with selective mutism, to expect our children to speak without practicing in a treatment environment as well as at home.

Parents with children with selective mutism need to support their children, and be patient with them as they progress into speech.

Why Kids With Selective Mutism Need Real Practice Before They Begin Speaking

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and four parents wrap up their chat by discussing strategies for helping a child with Selective Mutism build social comfort and confidence. 

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum recommends techniques that incldue setting up play dates with familiar peers, coaching teachers to ask questions that encourage verbal responses, and creating supportive environments. 

In other words, parental involvement and consistent application of these strategies are key towards a child’s progress!