269 When Communication Is Hard: Selective Mutism and Anxiety-Based Speech Challenges, part 9

2026-06-04

Hey Friends~ Some kids can talk—but don’t in certain situations. Maybe they suddenly go silent at school, church, or around other people. In this episode of our When Communication Is Hard series, we’re talking about selective mutism and anxiety-based communication challenges. These children may have the words, know what they want to say, and still feel unable to access their voice in certain situations. We’ll look at what may be happening beneath the silence, why pressure backfires and makes talking harder, and how safety, predictability, and connection gently support ...

Hey Friends~

Some kids can talk—but don’t in certain situations. Maybe they suddenly go silent at school, church, or around other people. In this episode of our When Communication Is Hard series, we’re talking about selective mutism and anxiety-based communication challenges. These children may have the words, know what they want to say, and still feel unable to access their voice in certain situations.

We’ll look at what may be happening beneath the silence, why pressure backfires and makes talking harder, and how safety, predictability, and connection gently support speech over time. So, If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is being shy, stubborn, or overwhelmed, this episode will help you see the struggle with fresh eyes—and respond with more understanding and hope.

Always cheering you on!

Dinalynn

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

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IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC, part 6

264 When Communication Is Hard: Downs Syndrome, Genetic Syndromes, Learning Differences, part 7

265 When Communication Is Hard: Brain Injury, Seizures, and Communication Regression, part 8

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