It is common knowledge that most people can be classified as either introverts or extroverts. A lesser known fact however is that 25% people or 1 in every 4 people is an introvert. While being an extroverts are the preferred breed of people in most places, being an introvert in an extrovert preferring world can be difficult, especially for a child. Given their need for solidarity and the preference for being on their own, it becomes difficult to them to make friends. While as adults we understand that we are adults, children don't and can feel like they are out of place or don't belong. Here is what you can do to make it easier for your child to make friends.
1. Know your child: Some children tend to be naturally shy while some tend to have a phase of anxiety which makes them seem shy. Introverts and anxiety are two very different things. So get to know your child and if need be, take help from a professional to determine the cause of their shyness and or anxiety. Knowing is half the game one since it will become a lot easier to help your child strengthen his/ her traits once you know where they stand.
2. Push boundaries little at a time: The point is not to change your child; the idea is to use their existing traits to help them socialize more effectively. Keep an eye out for opportunities where you child's natural traits of being a good listener or being patient can help them get comfortable with new people and in new environments easier and relatively faster.
3. Don't force it: Encouragement and forcing have a very fine line that distinguish the two. The idea is to encourage your child to try something new instead of forcing it on him/ her. It is a bad move to label your child as shy or timid. It will create a timid weak self-image lacing confidence. Try various creative ways to create a stimulating environment that is comfortable to both your child and helps develop social skills naturally.
4. One at a time: Introvert children tend to have difficulty coping with a new environment and multiple new faces at the same time. The better thing to do is, introduce them to a new environment first and let them get comfortable. Once comfortable, then introduce a new child to play with him/her and let them carry on till they've grown comfortable Prepare. Do not push your introvert child in a group and expect them to manage on their own. you should ease them into being comfortable with groups and new faces.
5. Preparation helps: When taking your child to a new environment or having new people come over, it's a good idea to talk to your child about what to expect and how it will be. Knowing things in advance helps ease their anxiety and helps them grow comfortable much easier and faster. As a parent its your job to anticipate your child's need and to nurture their strengths.
Helping introverts make friends is helping them grow comfortable in their own skin and strengthening their natural skills to help them socialize more effectively.
