Being shy isn’t necessarily a problem, but in most cases, shyness blocks people from being as comfortable as they’d like to be. Parents always want what is best for their little ones, especially when it comes to making new friends and warming up to new situations.
Here are a few ways of helping your little one overcome their shyness.
Start small with people you know. Tell them to practice social behaviours such as eye contact and confident body language. You can invite people your child is most comfortable with to do small talk and ask questions. This can build up your little one’s confidence so that they can branch out and do the same with new friends.
Think of some conversation starters. Sometimes having a conversation starter will make it easier for your little one to approach a new person. They can think of conversation openers like introducing themselves ("Hi, I'm Jackie, we're in the same music class"), giving a compliment ("That coat looks gorgeous on you"), or asking a question ("Do you know if we have a free class tomorrow?").
Develop assertiveness. Being assertive means your little one will speak up for themselves. It means they will ask for what they want or need, or telling other people when they're stepping on your toes.
Give it a chance. Tweens can find group activities where they can be among people with similar interests. They can practice socialising with new people and get to know them slowly.
Rehearse what to say. Your tween can write down what they want to say beforehand. They can practice this out loud or in front of a mirror. This will make them a lot more comfortable when they are in a social situation or ready to say something to someone.
Most of all, tell them to be themselves. Trying different conversational approaches is ok, but they will eventually find a style that suits them. Being real is what attracts real friends.
