What to Do When Your Kid Is Awkward

Every parent wants their child to treat awkward kids with respect and not to pick on them. But when it is your child who has social difficulties, is unsure and is constrained in manner, it can be a trying experience. According to the Center for Development and Learning, a nonprofit Louisiana-based organization that specializes in customized, pragmatic professional learning relevant to the needs of students, just as with other abilities, children vary in how they are able to form social interactions and friendships. Realizing that you have not failed as a parent can allow you to apply several tips and help your child with some ease.

  1. Seek Professional Help

    • Knowing the reasons behind your child̵7;s awkwardness is the first step toward helping her. While all kids can be awkward from time to time, extreme cases that affect a child̵7;s day-to-day life require a psychologist̵7;s attention. For example, social phobia causes a person to be extremely anxious and shy around others, and can make it hard for her to interact socially. Also, according to Marguerite Kelly, an advice columnist writing for ̶0;The Washington Post,̶1; a child with nonverbal communication disorder can suffer confused social skills. If your child̵7;s awkwardness is as a result of a medical condition, a psychologist can recommend a treatment and therapy plan for her.

    Teach Your Child Social Skills

    • Being the person your child is most comfortable with, you are her best teacher. Train her to recognize verbal and nonverbal communication cues, such as smiling. Make a plan that your child is comfortable with, suits her needs and avoids being pushy. For example, if she is unresponsive to the acts of others, train her to ask questions and make requests. Give her room to practice what she learns as you share family time or give her an opportunity to answer a close family member̵7;s phone call. Even if you involve a therapist, understand the plan and be part of it.

    Be Supportive

    • Other children or people in the society easily pick on awkward children. For example, children will laugh at a child who is too clumsy and keeps falling. Be your child̵7;s best friend and reassure him that you love him and that he is special and perfect in your eyes. By not treating your child differently from other children, ensure that he does not feel abnormal. Also, pay attention to situations that may aggravate his awkwardness, such as smells, crowds and noise, and protect him from them.

    Be Patient

    • Realize that some children are naturally gifted at social interactions, while others have to learn and it can take time. Be careful how you react when your child makes mistakes. For example, if your child ignores a visitor̵7;s handshake, don̵7;t force it, or yell at him. Instead, demonstrate what he should do and make it fun. Remember to applaud your child for any progress made and constantly reassure him of your constant support.

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