What to Do if Your Child Is Awkward
Most parents want their children to fit in. They also want their children to be kind to the kids that don̵7;t fit in. But when it is your child who is excessively shy or has tendencies to rattle on, and other kids ridicule and pick on him, helping your child cope can be a difficult task. However, some practice, support, patience and perhaps professional advice can help your child gain the confidence he needs to survive socially.
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Seek Professional Advice
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If your child̵7;s awkwardness is affecting her day-to-day life, Marguerite Kelly, a columnist in ̶0;The Washington post," advises that you visit a psychologist. Knowing the reasons behind your child̵7;s awkwardness can be a big step towards helping her. For example, according to Kelly, nonverbal communication disorder can confuse a child̵7;s social skills. On the other hand, social phobia causes people to have strong feelings of anxiety and shyness around people and can make it hard for them to interact socially. If your child has any of these conditions, a psychologist can recommend a treatment plan such as seeing a therapist.
Teach Your Child Social Skills
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As a parent, you are your child̵7;s first teacher and your home is the first class. Your child might not understand the unwritten rules of social interaction. They may miss the cues that everyone else gets in a social gathering, overreact or not understand what other children are saying. For example, your child might not understand that it is wrong to open someone̵7;s bag or peep under a lady̵7;s dress. Go through some social skills patiently at home with him. Also, teach him how to practice greetings and continue a conversation by role-playing. For example, teach your child the nonverbal parts of communication such as smiling and making eye contact.
Look For Opportunities For Your Child to Learn
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Look for comfortable opportunities where your child can learn and practice their social skills. For example, a family gathering where your child knows most people can be a comfortable environment for her to practice what you have been teaching her. When family members walk in, lead by example and let your child follow after you. Find social training programs or small children's groups in your area where your child feels comfortable. Avoid settings where your child feels uncomfortable, such as large gatherings. The University of Michigan, in their article ̶0;Non-verbal learning disability,̶1; advices that you keep the environment familiar and predictable, provide routine and prepare your child for new social settings.
Be Patient
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Reassuring your child that you love her for who she is makes her more confident about herself. Be patient and give your child time to learn. Go through the lessons over and over again, and applaud her when she does a god job. Of great importance is to refrain from critical comments and lectures when your child doesn̵7;t get it right. Also, being overprotective or constantly shielding your child from social situations does her more harm than good because there is no opportunity to learn. In addition, encourage your child to talk about things she loves. Even awkward children can bloom when talking about something they love such as animals, toys or a little sibling.
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