Is it normal for babies to stop talking?

Real and perceived speech delays are not uncommon in babies and toddlers. In fact as many of 10% of all children suffer from a voice, speech or swallowing disorder that they may later overcome.

Why would a child suddenly stop talking?

Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in certain social situations, such as with classmates at school or to relatives they do not see very often. It usually starts during childhood and, if left untreated, can persist into adulthood.

What age does selective mutism start?

Selective mutism often starts in very young children, around ages 2 to 4. But it may not be recognized until a child starts school.

What causes selective mutism in a child?

Selective mutism is most common in children under age 5. The cause, or causes, are unknown. Most experts believe that children with the condition inherit a tendency to be anxious and inhibited. Most children with selective mutism have some form of extreme social fear (phobia).

What are the symptoms of selective mutism?

If you believe that your child may be struggling with selective mutism, look for the following symptoms: Expression of a desire to speak that is held back by anxiousness, fear, or embarrassment. Fidgeting, eye contact avoidance, lack of movement or lack of expression when in feared situations.

What does selective mutism look like?

Appearance: Many children with Selective Mutism have a frozen-looking, blank, expressionless face and stiff, awkward body language with lack of eye contact when feeling anxious. This is especially true for younger children in the beginning of the school year or then suddenly approached by an unfamiliar person.

How do you know if your child has selective mutism?

Watch for these signs of selective mutism: Rigid, “stiff as a board” body posture. Expressionless, flat or “deer in headlights” face. Slow to respond in a social situation. Clinginess with parents when entering into social settings.

Does my 11 month old have autism?

Developmental red flags By 9 months: No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions. By 12 months: Lack of response to name. By 12 months: No babbling or “baby talk.” By 12 months: No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing, showing, reaching, or waving.