My name is Karina and I teach in Chicago. I was doing some research
on Selective Mutism and came across this forum. I started teaching
my 4th/5th grade class on September 7th. One of my children,
Guadalupe, is selectively mute. She spoke in 2nd grade, she stopped
in 3rd, and now I have her in 4th. I've heard several different
explanations, but it seems as though some problems occurred when her
uncle from Mexico moved into the home last year - Some sort of abuse
possibly. Nobody can really tell me for sure. From what I
understand, she does talk at home, but won't say a word at school. I
pulled her aside yesterday to let her know that I knew she was shy
and I understood her fear. I told her that she could whisper in my
ear if she wants and that whenever she's ready to speak, I encourage
her to. I didn't get more than 2 words out and she began crying. I
was trying not to make it a confrontational thing, but she lost it.
She saw a psychologist for awhile last year, but the family's
insurance only covered 10 weeks. They could apply for Social
Security, but it has been said that the family came over illegally
from Mexico and applying for this could be a risk.

I don't know what to do!!! I've been doing my research. I'm going
to call the family and see if I can visit them in their home. I want
to talk some more with Guadalupe since yesterday wasn't exactly a
positive experience for her. I know that I should make speaking seem
like a normal thing and not have a huge celebration if she does
speak. Do you think I should speak with the class separately from
Guadalupe and tell them that if she does talk, not to make a big deal
about it? What else can I do to encourage her to speak? I will take
any and all advice!

Sincerely,
Karina