SMA recommends that treatment be sought as soon as it is suspected that a child may have selective mutism (SM). It is especially important to seek help when it is clear that a child is having difficulty engaging in social situations, seems out of step with his/her peers, and is experiencing adverse consequences such as having difficulty adjusting to school, difficulty with social relationships or co-occurring symptoms such as depression. Treatment is not indicated during the first month of school when a child is adjusting to entering preschool or Kindergarten for the first time, as this behavior is developmentally appropriate for young children who are not yet familiar with the school routine and being around other adults and children. If the selectively mute behavior continues beyond the first month of school, however, a treatment should be considered.

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