Selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder where a child struggles to speak in specific settings or around certain people. While they might be talkative and outgoing at home, they may freeze into silence at school, in public, or around strangers. Some children might whisper or use gestures, while others feel completely unable to communicate outside their home environment.

No matter where your child is on this scale, Pebble Play offers gentle, structured support to help them find their voice.

Through our proven Communication through Connection (CTC) programme—developed by Zöe following her advanced 'Brave Talking' training—we blend evidence-based anxiety techniques with play therapy. Zöe closely attunes to your child's nervous system through their natural language, play, to help co-regulate them, creating a safe space where they are able to feel comfortable, understood and accepted as they are.

Once your child feels secure, we gradually introduce tried-and-tested techniques to build their verbal confidence step by step. Zöe collaborates closely with parents and teachers to extend these successes, helping your child speak comfortably across different settings and people.