How to Help Kids Come Out of Their Shells
Some children may be naturally shy, particularly when it comes to interacting with others. Whatever the reason for their hesitance, there are ways to help them come of their shells to become more social, make friends with like-minded interests and learn certain social norms. However, parents should be patient and compassionate when guiding their children to be more social; otherwise, children can become distrustful and retreat inward even more.
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Instructions
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Discuss the reason for the shyness. Perhaps she has an irrational fear that you are not aware of, or there may be an underlying issue that you don't know about. There are many reasons why a child might shy away from making new friends. While many times the issue isn't a serious one, talk to your child to be certain.
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Talk to your child about potential new friends at school or around your community. The more you talk up the benefits of being more social and making friends, the more enticing it may seem to him. You can even talk about your friendships as an example of how great it can be to become more social.
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Sign her up for activities you know she will enjoy. This may be a kid's dance class, sporting activity or even a book club; the key is to find something you know she really likes and will participate actively in. This gives her the opportunity to meet other kids who enjoy the same activities, which may make it easier for her to make friends.
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Set up short play dates with family friends or neighbors. Meet at a local park or ask them over for dessert. Choose people with children the same age as your child. In his own environment or around you, he may be more likely to let his guard down.
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Enroll your child in a debate or acting class. While this may be too terrifying for some children, others may excel and learn to overcome their shyness.
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Choose educators who have experience with introverted children. Class sizes should be smaller and teachers should be patient and provide a lot of one-on-one attention to help children come out of their shells.
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Tips & Warnings
Allow her to sit or stand near you at the beginning of new activities or in new surroundings. Do not force her to participate until she is ready. Shy children sometimes need extra time to warm up to new people and places. She may even need to be a "spectator" for a couple of days before being ready to participate.
Be patient with your child as she tries to come out of her shell. This may take longer than you think or longer than you would like it to.
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