My child is extremely shy around strangers: How can I help them?
The moment our children come into our lives the instinct to protect is activated. We spend so much time teaching them to not talk to strangers and to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Throw in the overabundance of electronic devices commanding their attention and a pandemic, and it’s not hard to see why some children aren’t social and why others can be extremely shy.
When a child isn’t comfortable engaging with others, they may suffer as a result. Milder cases of shyness can make them feel uneasy around people, while extreme shyness can develop into a social anxiety disorder, according to reporting by Michigan State University Extension.
So how can we help them? Here are some tips for parents and caregivers to help little ones overcome their shyness.
Give kids a heads up about what to expect in new situations so they won’t be thrown off guard or frightened by unfamiliar people, surroundings or experiences.
Build confidence through activities they enjoy. Are they interested in soccer, painting, reading, movies? Sign them up for a related activity. Once children are with someone who has a shared interest, they might have an easier time starting a conversation.
Celebrate the little wins, like accompanying you to a busy place or going to a social function.
Be patient. Let them proceed at a pace they are comfortable with. Don’t push too hard or, worse, ridicule them for being shy or failing to connect with others.
Be a role model. When your child sees you happily making friends and getting invited to outings, they see the benefits of being outgoing and it inspires them to make the effort.
Children’s personalities are as different and unique as they are. But if you are concerned the shyness might be something more, reach out to your child’s pediatrician.
