But when children are shy all the time, their shyness can become a problem.
Shy children tend to like themselves less and have a harder time making friends. Their shyness might also restrict their learning.
Unknowingly, parents can promote their children’s feelings of shyness. For example, children’s shyness can increase if their parents:
• Constantly call attention to what others think of them.
• Dote over them and allow them little autonomy.
• “Label” them as shy.
To help children become more confident and less inhibited, parents can:
• Know and accept children as they are. Get to know and show respect for your child’s interests and feelings.
• Build self-esteem. Praise children when they demonstrate new skills.
• Teach social skills. Role-play the use of “social skill words” like please and Can I play too?
• Promote a fresh start. Help your child find new groups of peers to play with and with whom she might achieve a higher peer status.
• Don’t push children into new situations they see as threatening. Take time to help your child feel more secure by luring her into social interactions with interesting materials or information.
Copyright © Parent Institute
Comments on Parents Can Help Shy Children Be More Assertive
Heather
says: Oct. 14, 2011nina
says: Aug. 30, 2010"shy children tend to like themselves less" ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? I had to read that sentence over a few times to make sure I really read it right.
Show me one study or any proof that statement is true.
Also, teaching a child to say "May I play with you?" in someone who already lacks assertiveness is most likely setting them up for failure. Experts state that children should just try to just get involved in a game, or find an "in" because if you ask kids who're already playing they don't like to stop to answer your question and more times than not they will say no.
If someone was paid to write this article, I'd demand my money back!