As a parent or guardian, watching your little one start their early childhood education and struggle to make friends can be tough. If your child wants to make friends but finds that their shyness gets in the way, there are several steps you can take to help them overcome their timidity.

How to Help a Shy Child Make Friends

1. Avoid Labeling Them

Introducing your child as, “this is my son, he’s very shy,” instantly makes their shyness a part of them and reinforces their feelings every time they hear it. It may also encourage other people to treat them differently. Instead, introduce them with a fact, such as saying what grade he or she is in or a hobby they have.

2. Don’t Grill Them About Their Day

It can be tempting to want to know how their day went but don’t make it interrogatory. Asking them who they played with or if they sat with anyone at lunch can give make your child feel embarrassed if they acted alone throughout the day. Instead, ask them what their favorite part of the day was or if they went outside for lunch to elicit information without being overwhelming.

3. Schedule Play Dates

Help your little one be at ease with the other children by arranging small, one-on-one play dates with their favorite classmates. Getting together at a park or grabbing some ice cream together will help them feel like they have an ally in the classroom.

4. Communicate With the Teacher

Discretely let your child’s teacher know how they feel. Teachers are dedicated to their students’ early childhood education, and with this information, they’ll pair your little one with kids they feel comfortable with. They can also give your child little chores, like collecting papers and wiping the board, to help them feel more involved in the class.

If you’re looking for an early childhood education program where your shy little one can thrive, contact Seagull Schools in Honolulu, HI. This private, nonprofit corporation has helped students start their academic journey and foster a love of learning. With nine classrooms, your child will be in a smaller group, which will help them feel comfortable while supporting individualized attention. Learn more about this exceptional early childhood education center online, or call (808) 261-8534 to inquire about enrollment.