Is your little one struggling to socialize with others? Are you finding that you’re feeling he or she is behind in making friends and learning to play with others? Parenting can be a real struggle as adults learn to not only create boundaries but also nourish their hearts and minds, and, while kids should certainly love to build blocks or color with mom and dad, at some point, they are going to need social skills. Therefore, it’s important to explore options that push your loved ones out the door and into social circles where they can see and talk with others. Here are four ways that might work for you.
Try a School Setting
Mom and dad are a comfort zone. For many children, then, breaking away with others is difficult when you’re around. Placing them in a school for even a couple of days a week could just be the answer you need. The first few days might be rough. In fact, it could even take weeks, but over time, you’ll find that without you there they’ll find others interesting, navigating into groups and making friends. Complete research on private schools in redmond wa, seeking an institution that embraces individual growth.
Join a Playgroup
Another option is locating a small playgroup in your neighborhood. This gives you and your child someplace to interact. In this setting, you model social skills. As you begin to talk and secure friends, your kiddo witnesses your behavior, applying it too. Sit and chat with the other moms and dads. During that time, allow your son or daughter to explore. Not every meeting may go well at first. Hopefully, after a few sittings you’ll see some bonding.
Make Going to Parks Routine
The beauty of park settings is that tons of children play, but adults maintain supervision. It also allows for independence and interaction. Some days, it’s okay to just be alone, sitting on a swing or going down the slide. Others are around, and it’s adapting from distance. Let your child watch the play. Perhaps after a bit, it may seem interesting to join someone else. If it doesn’t seem to be going well, a quick exit can happen at any point. You have no strings in this scenario.
Find an Extracurricular
Comfort is important. Maybe your toddler hasn’t found something that strikes a chord. If that’s the case, begin looking into organized classes. For some, structure is what makes social settings okay. Much like a school, in this avenue a dance or gymnastics class provides entertainment with clear direction.
It’s hard at any age to establish friendships. Try different environments, and remember patience.