Promoting Social Well Being in Children

Set Standards

• It's important that your child's social interactions teach him about things such as manners, conflict resolution and listening to others. Set the standards for social time at home so your child knows what's acceptable when spending time with friends. Explain that things like bullying, teasing, name-calling and exclusion are unacceptable, but listening carefully to others, sharing and choosing conflict solutions that benefit everyone are welcome.

Provide Opportunities

• Your child might have a chance to interact with his peers at school, but that shouldn't be the only social interaction he gets on a regular basis. By signing him up for sports, clubs and other activities and setting up play dates and chances to spend time with other kids, you encourage healthy social development. Practice makes perfect, and the more time your child spends with other children, the more effective he will become in social situations.

Use Social Toys

• Toys can be an excellent way to promote your child's social well-being, but they can also be a barrier. Whether you invite other kids to play at your house or you're playing with your child alone, social toys teach him about teamwork and sharing. Blocks, cars and dress-up toys are ideal for sharing and working together, but independent toys, such as paints or clay modeling sets, may not encourage your child's social side, notes the Stanislaus County Office of Education. Look for ways to incorporate social play into your child's routine.

Build Self-Esteem

• Much of your child's social interactions hinge on the way he feels about himself. If he has low self-esteem, he might resort to bullying or avoiding social situations altogether. As a parent, it's your duty to foster your child's self-esteem by praising his efforts and making him feel secure. When you notice him sharing with another child -- even if it's his own sibling -- you can give verbal praise. Be specific, for example, say, "I just noticed that you shared that crayon with John. You're so good at making sure everyone gets a turn." As your child becomes more confident about his social abilities, he'll feel more comfortable associating with other kids, teachers and parents.