How to Use Systematic Desensitization to Order Food for Selective Mutism

Selective mutism is a rare condition that occurs in children, usually before the age of five. In selective mutism, children will speak to parents, siblings or other trusted family members, however they will not communicate verbally in certain other situations, such as ordering food at a restaurant. The systematic desensitization technique allows the child to slowly become more comfortable ordering food by using explicit steps. The child will need to relearn how to associate calming feelings with anxiety producing situation.

Instructions

• 1

  Teach your child relaxation techniques, such as counting when nervous, deep breathing and visualizing a relaxing scene.

• 2

  Use simple meditations to help your child become calm. Have your child close his eyes and practice deep breathing while he is somewhere that he feels comfortable.

• 3

  Describe a scene where you and your child are at a restaurant, ordering food. Remind your child that he is feeling calm and confident. Have your child envision ordering the food, talking to the waitress and answering any questions. Repeat this mediation until it no longer causes anxiety in your child.

• 4

  Role-play ordering food at home with your child. Pretend to be a waitress and have your child practice ordering food. Try to make the situation as real as possible and practice the scene daily.

• 5

  Visit a restaurant without making your child speak. Have your child to practice his relaxation techniques. Continue to visit restaurants until your child is no longer anxious in these situations.

• 6

  Have your child order food at a restaurant by communicating indirectly. You may have your child write out his order or point to a menu item. Remind him to practice his relaxation techniques. Continue having your child communicate this way until he is feeling more comfortable.

• 7

  Encourage your child to order food directly from the waitress. You should bring your child to the same restaurant so that he will feel more comfortable. Reward your child if he is able to order food. Continue to practice having your child order food and try different restaurants.