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 Overcoming Shyness
My middle daughter Alysta is a chatterbox at home, constantly talking
about anything and everything. Yet when we go out in public she clams up.
Whenever anyone asks her a question she just smiles, turns her head, and
refuses to answer. There are many children out there who are shy like my
daughter. Although shyness is not necessarily a bad thing, it denotes a
sensitivity that will be an asset later in life; it can be difficult for
a child and a social parent to deal with. Here's what you can do for
helping shy children in overcoming shyness and adjust to social situations.
Entertain
Invite a friend over to play. Start out with just one. Your home is a safe
environment and a perfect place for your child to work on their social
skills. After your child is comfortable with one friend invite over two or
three at a time. When you have adult guests have your child present for at
least part of the time. Don't force her to talk but just be present. This
will help her realize that having other people around is not a threat.
Listen
Listen carefully to your child when he speaks. This will help him realize
that the things that he says are important. As his confidence in his own
abilities grows he will be more likely to say something in a group setting.
If your child does not feel like they are listened to and their opinion is
valued they will start speaking less.
Practice
Role-play with your child events that might happen in a social setting. Have
her practice answering common questions like "What is your name?" and "How
old are you?" This will make answering those questions easier. If you know
your child will be attending a birthday party talk about what might happen
at the party. Help your child realize that there is nothing to be frightened of.
Don't Label
Don't tell your child that he is shy or refer to him as shy in front of other
people. Children often grow into the labels that they are given. Even if your
child is shy telling them will only increase that tendency and make your job
difficult for helping your child in overcoming shyness.
Public Speaking
Help your child speak in non-threatening situations. Have your child recite poems
or read stories to family members. Ask your child's teacher to call on them to
read something in class, even if your child doesn't volunteer. The more positive
public speaking experiences your child has the more likely they are to speak up
on their own.
Go Early
If you know you will be attending a social event. Arrive early before the crowds
arrive. This gives your child a chance to adjust to the setting and prepare for
the situation. Instead of entering a room full of people and feel overwhelmed your
child will be able to adjust as the crowd slowly grows. This way your child can
find a friend to attach to as they arrive instead of having to search through a crowd.
About the Author:
The article has been written by Teresa - a mother of 3 beautiful children. She has also authored other parenting articles sharing her insights on parenting.
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