Sliding-In
Sliding-In is a gradual approach that builds speaking confidence through small, manageable steps. It reduces anxiety by introducing new people, places or speaking activities at a pace that feels comfortable for the individual.
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What is Sliding-In?
Sliding-In is a treatment programme that breaks speaking activities into small, manageable steps, starting from what an individual already feels comfortable doing.
Preparing the Environment
It is essential to support confidence and reduce anxiety through collaboration with schools, using training sessions and tailored resources.
Length of Programmes
Programme length varies based on individual needs. Complex cases or additional anxiety often require longer support with smaller steps.
Informal Sliding-In
Used with younger children, the adult gradually joins communication activities already in progress so speech can emerge without pressure.
Formal Sliding-In
A structured process starting with a trusted person in a comfortable setting, then step-by-step introducing new elements or environments.
Related Strategies
Techniques such as shaping, desensitisation, and reward systems are often used alongside Sliding-In to support motivation and confidence.
Key Resources
The Selective Mutism Resource Manual (Johnson and Wintgens, 2016) is an essential tool if starting a sliding in programme. It provides all the information you need to get started and trouble shooting advice for during a programme.
Selective Mutism: Planning and Managing Interventions with Small-Steps Programmes. This handout is available on the SMIRA website and gives a comprehensive overview of how to run a programme.
Building Communication Confidence – This handout is also available on the SMIRS website and Facebook page and is a programme for use with adolescents and adults which utilises a telephone programme. It can be self directed or supported by an adult.
Transferring Speech to the Classroom and Generalisation in the School Environment – This is available on the SMIRA facebook page and website and gives examples of steps for use within a programme.
Helping Your Child with Selective Mutism: Practical Steps to Overcome a Fear of Speaking (McHolm et al, 2005). This book has some easy to read hints and tips for a sliding in programme however it is recommended more for use when you already have a health professionals support.