Why doesn't this child talk?  -  Quick Reference

Children with the Anxiety Disorder called Selective Mutism become mute in some or most social situations and cannot utter a sound.

Most children with this social communication anxiety disorder have social phobia, which begins to explain their difficulty interacting in social situations.  They may have difficulty smiling or making eye contact. This is not because they are unhappy, purposely ignoring you, or trying to get attention. It is not due to willfulness, stubborness or manipulation. It is because of anxiety and fear that can literally make it impossible to speak. 

How to relate or treat the child -

- Talk to the child normally, but don't expect a response right away;
- Get down on the ground to play at the child's level and find out what subjects really interest him or her;
- Minimize eye contact;
- Avoid open-ended questions - phrase questions so that the child can respond non-verbally, ask yes/no questions;
- Do not try to make the child speak or ask why he/she does not talk to you. It will increase the anxiety;
- Do not act surprised or 'make a big deal out of it' if the child begins to speak. It may embarrass the child and cause a setback;
- Just enjoy, have fun, and get to know this child who has so much to say but needs some time and help saying it!!!

Resource:   www.selectivemutism.org