How to socialize shy kids?

Some kids are naturally extrovert and mingle well in their age group while some kids are shy and enjoy their own company. The former group later on in life faces fewer problems in adjusting to the world. But the shy kids do not have developed interaction skills and also have adjustment difficulty with the people. This certainly is not desirable and healthy for kids. Is it possible to socialize shy kids?

Though most of the time genetics are blamed for the shy attitude of the child, yet there are many more reasons which make the child shy and recluse. With the following ways the parents can make their child more friendly and social.

Ways to socialize shy kids and eliminate shyness

Shed your shyness first

The children of shy parents are likely to be introverted and less social. Therefore, change this trait of yours and be more outgoing and friendly. This habit of yours will definitely benefit your kids. The children will be exposed to new places, people, and situations thereby making them more extroverts in nature.
                                                 

Socialize your shy kid with patience

Invite the child in the neighbor

Get in touch with your neighbor and invite their child to your place for a small party or snack time. The first meeting shall be short involving some snacks and chat time. The children may be encouraged to play sometime and if they do not seem to be comfortable then the meeting should be ended on a happy note.

Plan the visit of your child to a nearby house

With the cooperation of your neighbor you can plan a meeting of children at their place. The parent should accompany the child initially and let the children meet like this for some time till they get friendlier with each other. When they start enjoying each other's company then the parent can move out from that room for some time still well in reach in case of any discomfort between the kids.

Participate in family gatherings

Family get-to-gathers are a safe way for kids to get social. The kids can meet their family members and cousins and learn to be more social. It is a great way to hone the social skills of your child through family meetings and outings.

Enroll your kid in some playgroup

Classes like those of dance, crafts, music, skating, or any sports class help the child to become more social. He or she tends to meet more kids of the same age and that helps him or her to give up shy nature.                                    

Enroll your shy child in a playgroup

Be supportive and loving towards your child

Too much discipline and control erodes the confidence of the child of the child and makes him withdrawn and apprehensive. Discipline your child but at the same time provide support and space as well. Children nurtured with love and a favorable atmosphere will be more confident and socially adaptable.

Encourage offline socializing

Restrict socializing over the internet and telephones. Also limit the television viewing of your child. Instead ask your child to meet friends face to face frequently. You may organize their meetings at home or in a park. Plan an outing with fellow parents and their kids to attractive places like a zoo, museum, or mall where they can have fun together.

Points to remember while dealing with a shy child

• Respect the basic nature of your introvert kid.
• Do not force a shy child to mingle with others, whether adult or child.
• Avoid using negative words like, "oh! he does not talk to anyone", or "why is he like that".
• Avoid labeling your child.
• Use comforting and encouraging words while asking your child to meet others.
• Some kids may need a script to connect with others. You may teach them a few sentences for situations when others compliment them or offer them help such as " Thank you, you are so kind".
• Use the strengths of your shy child to make him friendly so that he stretches his limits to mingle.
• Let him follow the interests that make him happy and confident.
• Let him open up about his feelings for other kids, adults, or a family member in specific, his experiences at home or school that might be shaping his social skills.
• Respond calmly to any anxiety or worries of your child so that he feels safe and taken care of.

You can transfer your confidence in your child only when you are full of positivism and confidence. Therefore, boost your confidence and shed shyness today and help your kid to beam with social confidence too. Socializing your kid goes a long way in making your child socially comfortable and acceptable also. With your time, patience, love, and effort you can alter the child to be friendly and extrovert.

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