How to Prevent Being Shy at a New School

Starting a new school can be intimidating even if you're typically carefree and outgoing. Couple the unfamiliar environment with a tendency to be shy, however, and you'll need to follow strategies to feel comfortable in class. Try these to fit in and make friends in no time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Be approachable and friendly. Although you may feel uncomfortable, keeping your nose buried in a book or wearing your iPod headphones during lunch may keep potential friends away because you appear standoffish. Make eye contact and smile at the kids who seem open and nice.

2. Make small talk with students seated around you as you wait for your teacher to start class. Pick up on something like a photo or button on their backpack that reveals what band, sport team or celebrity they like. Use it as a conversation starter. Ask questions since most kids will think you're fascinating even if you're just a good listener.

3. Join clubs, groups or charitable endeavors to meet other students that share the same interests. You'll be able to interact at meetings, during projects and on field trips. Even if you're shy, a club will allow you to discuss subjects that you're passionate about, making it easier to be expressive and open.

4. Go out for sports teams or cheerleading if you're athletically inclined. Many schools also offer intramural sports if you don't quite make the cut for junior varsity or varsity teams. You'll bond quickly with your teammates during practices and games.

5. Keep an eye out for other kids in school who are just as shy as you are. It may be less intimidating for you to approach another student who's also hoping to make new friends.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pressure yourself to become part of the "popular" clique at a new school. Be yourself. Find kind, loyal and trustworthy friends that you have a lot in common with regardless of where they are on the school's social scale.