How To Boost Confidence In A Shy Toddler
We all want our children to be happy, well rounded and enjoy their childhood. So experiencing a child’s shy or timid nature can be very worrying for parents, particularly if it affects their social behaviour and ability to mix with other children. A shy or timid toddler can be especially difficult to deal with, as they are only just learning about their environment. However, toddlers learn quickly to cope with the world around them and sometimes all they need is some extra encouragement in order to feel secure and confident in themselves.
Accept Their Personality
The first thing we should do as parents is understand that children as young as toddlers, have different personalities and ways of expressing themselves just as adults do. Sometimes a shy toddler may have difficulty socialising and having fun in unfamiliar situations. But as long as this does not affect their overall cognitive or language development or cause them overwhelming anxiety or suffering, it is acceptable to say that it is part of who they are. In fact, children who are more withdrawn and shy socially are often more empathetic listeners, more imaginative and creative adults, who may develop studying and creative thinking skills at a higher level than other children.
Parenting Style
The parenting style we use with a shy toddler can directly affect their progress and development. If a parent constantly pushes the child to participate and demonstrates little empathy with their feelings, this can lead the child to feel even more anxious and less willing to participate socially or tell the parent how they feel. No matter how much you want to see your shy toddler integrating with other children their age, you need to guide them with baby steps that they feel comfortable with. Let them know that you support them and that you will accompany them as they decide to join in. Using positive language to encourage them such as “Let’s try it together” and talking about how they feel, are also important in helping them recognise and understand what happens to them and then learn how to face it.
Childcare
Nurseries are a wonderful option for both babies and toddlers. They can help them to develop social skills from being around other children, before starting school. Children in this age group, who are naturally curious and usually love to socialise. As Toddlers are exploring their world, they need a safe environment to play in, lots of diverse activities to experience and the security that they are in good hands. As most Nursery Schools have a high ratio of staff to children in this age group, Toddlers generally feel free to follow their needs for activity, in a safe and secure environment.
If you need help looking for childcare a great resource for parents is www.look4nurseries.co.uk, whether you are looking for nurseries in lambeth or childcare across the UK they can help.
If you need help looking for childcare a great resource for parents is www.look4nurseries.co.uk, whether you are looking for nurseries in lambeth or childcare across the UK they can help.
Motivation
Motivating a shy toddler is quite different to pushing her to do what you think is right. And games and other activities are always the best way to reach young children and help them understand certain concepts or ideas through play. Role-playing social situation with your child using their toys or puppets is an excellent way for them to learn what happens when we meet new people. Drawing a picture before attending a social situation such as birthday party, can also be relaxed way of letting them know what will happen when they get there and prepare them to cope with loud noise and large groups of people. Arrange play dates with his or friends, keeping the numbers to one or two children invitees only. This can be a wonderful way to help your toddler learn social skills in the security of their own home. And don’t forget to give positive recognition every time they achieve a new social skill such as smiling, waving or kissing someone new.