Shyness, what is it? Is it shyness when a child is silent, reserved, clings to one’s parent on seeing strangers? Shyness is a personality trait not a disease or mental disability or any folly. Can this be addressed to create a positive impact on the child is many parents concern? Shy children are generally quiet, happy to be around, make eye contact while interacting with people and are loved by all.

If your child is a talkative, chatty chub at home but clings to you when in a group, it could be an indication that your child is over sensitive to new people and situations. He may feel anxious or inferior, or even out of place when he is with other people. Sometimes, this quality can also be genetic.

• Be a listener to your child; understand why he/she is so reticent.
• While introducing your child to peers, teachers, relatives avoid tagging the child shy use alternative words like quiet, reserved. This boosts the child’s morale and he in turn tries to come out of the shell.
• When visitors are coming prepare the child beforehand for pleasantries like hi, hello. This will help the child being relaxed and he will be more receptive to mingle with the group.
• If child is hesitant to be a part of group avoid pushing him to be a part of one. Understand the reasons for his resistance. Arrange for one-to-one interaction with peers initially. Encourage and introduce groups in due course of time.
• Ensure a shy child spends some time doing physical activity in groups rather than being a bookworm or being glued to the TV, mobile or computers. This will enhance his communication skills.
• When questioned, let him answer. You answering on his behalf will stop him from initiating communication(s). If you say my child is shy, the child will believe your statements and will not communicate at all or open up. A false perception about oneself develops in the mind of the child.
• If a child is being bullied among peers or in family for some of his shortcomings like habit of stammering, help, support and encourage the child. Take him to a therapist, let him interact with other stammering children, boost his confidence level.
• Nip the bud of inferiority complex by avoiding comparison of your child with others and setting realistic goals.
• If you feel your child is pessimistic, it is imperative that you root for positive enforcement. Encourage the child and make him get rid of negative though patterns.
• Apart from these factors the most impacting factor is the atmosphere at home. Constant tensions at home make the child reclusive and he starts keeping things to himself. This habit can become dangerous when he matures.

Dealing with shy kids is an art or skill. These kids need lots of love, support and encouragement from us. Shy children can blossom into outgoing, confident adults provided they are given the right environment. Never try pushing your child too hard, he may resist and may develop a shell.