Can selective mutism start at any age?

Selective mutism usually begins in early childhood, often between ages 3 and 6, but in rare cases, it may appear later. Typically, the condition is first noticed when a child enters preschool or school and faces communication demands outside the home.

• Early onset (3–6 years old) – Most common, often linked to school entry.
• Later onset (primary school or adolescence) – Less common, usually triggered by heightened anxiety or significant life changes.
• Adulthood – Extremely rare, but symptoms of untreated childhood selective mutism may persist into adult life.

Early identification and treatment greatly improve outcomes. If children receive therapy before mutism becomes entrenched, they often show much faster progress. Contact us now.