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Like adults, some children are more introverted than others. While parents don’t have to feel as if this is a quality that needs to be “fixed,” they may naturally want to encourage their children to socialize and make friends. Preschool provides the perfect opportunity for shy children to interact with their peers. Here are a few strategies you can use to help your child embrace new friendships at school.

What Tactics Can Help Your Child Make Friends in Preschool?

1. Don’t Attempt to Force It

Labeling your child’s shyness as something they need to overcome may make them feel as if they’re doing something wrong. In reality, some children are simply more open to new experiences and people than others.

Instead of using negative terms like, “Don’t be shy,” focus on what your child excels at. For instance, many shy individuals are good listeners. Encouraging your child to listen to other little ones share stories may, therefore, be an excellent way to help them build relationships. 

2. Practice at Home

preschoolTo prepare your child for meeting new people in preschool, practice at home first. You can role-play the act of making friends by introducing yourself as someone else or using stuffed animals, dolls, and action figures to act out scenarios.

If you have friends with children in similar age groups or even nieces and nephews, you can also set up one-on-one playdates. This will gradually introduce your child to new social settings.

3. Let the Instructors Know 

A simple way to give your child an extra advantage for bonding in preschool is to let their instructors know about their shyness. This is a scenario they’ve dealt with plenty of times before and, often, they have just the right solution for helping children come out of their shells. They might pair like-minded students together for activities they both enjoy to spur a social connection, for example.   

 

If you’re seeking an opportunity to help build your child’s social skills while simultaneously fostering their cognitive development, turn to The Preschool at Discovery. Located in Gilbert, AZ, this preschool takes a play-based yet focused approach to early childhood education, using strategies backed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Find out more about their programs online or call (480) 999-4245 to inquire about enrollment. 

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