Every child has their unique personality and pace at which they learn intellectually, physically, and socially. There are general mileposts of growth, however, and if you notice your toddler seems to struggle socially, it can be a source of stress. Preschool programs can help, as well as the tips listed below.

How to Socialize Your Child

1. Be a Good Model

Toddlers’ first role models for how to behave with others are family members, especially their mom and dad. By the age of 3, kids are watching and learning how to play and be with others, especially if they are going to a preschool program. 

Illustrate how to say hello and goodbye, share toys, give a hug, and other social skills. Interact with your friends or spouse the way you’d like your child to interact with others. As your little one watches you, they’ll learn from your behavior and act like you.

2. Narrate Playtime

When playing with your toddler, take the opportunity to teach them by narrating your actions. For example, you can say: “I’m handing you this doll because it’s nice to share.” Or use puppets to illustrate social gestures like giving a hug or how to communicate basic needs and desires.

3. Practice With Family

Extended family, such as grandparents, aunts and uncles, or close family friends, can help with expanding your little one’s social skills. Ask visitors to initiate interaction and to guide toddlers in a friendly way. Have them ask about your child’s toys and other interests to get them to open up.

It’s also important to allow a child to initiate contact, but avoid telling them what to do. Let them know that it’s okay to be a little shy, but reassure them that talking to others can be fun and rewarding. 

4. Schedule Play Dates

Play dates are opportunities for your child to interact with other kids in a comfortable setting, such as a park or playground. Try to organize play dates with children of a similar age. When you’re picking your child up from daycare or their preschool program, look for other kids they talk to.

Bring along familiar toys and games for them to play with. Until about ages 2 or 3, toddlers do a lot of “parallel play,” where they will use toys alongside another child but may not want to interact directly.

Help your child socialize by enrolling them in a preschool program with Guilford Child Development-RCCRR in Greensboro, NC. This affordable learning center helps over 5,000 High Point area families take advantage of preschool and early childhood development programs. From Head Start to family literacy, the center helps children and families thrive. Call (336) 887-8224 for more information or visit their website to see a full range of opportunities.