Tips for Parents on How to Nurture Their Shy Child

Some children are very outgoing and love the spotlight being on them. They love to entertain others and have no problem meeting new people. But for those of us with shy kids, it can be very difficult determining the right way to go about nurturing them and encouraging them to get out there and try new things or meet new people. Here are some tips to help parents with shy children and how to handle it.

To start out with, never belittle your child for being shy. If you go to introduce your child to new people and they back away, try to hide or duck behind you, do not scold them or yell at them especially in front of others. Simply explain to others that they are shy to new people at first. When you have a moment alone with your child, pull them aside and tell them these people are okay, you are still there with them, and that they need to say hello to have good manners. Stay calm and be reassuring. If you are confident, your child will feel that and it will help them.

Next, when it comes to trying new things such as girl scouts, sports or even Sunday school class always take them yourself. If your child is extremely shy and puts up a fight you can try hanging around for a bit and gently ease out once your child seems comfortable. Before going into this type of situation, let your child know that you are just a phone call away or very near by and that they will be okay. Focus on the positives of the situation telling them about the fun they will have learning a new sport, activity or craft. It is imperative that parents of a shy child always reassure their child over and over.

Try introducing your child to a variety of activities. Encourage your child to try out many things. It may take a few tries to find something they are enthusiastic about, but once you do find something your child particularly enjoys it will be worth it.

Lastly be calm yourself. Sometimes it can be very frustrating if your child is extremely shy. If you get upset about it you are only going to make him or her upset and more likely to back away. Let them know that you love them for them and that you two will work together to where he or she is finally more comfortable and ready to try new things and meet new people.