This week on The Real Parenting Show with Dr. Pete & Sara… is your child shy? Is it affecting his or her social development or learning?

Shyness is a common but little understood emotion. Everyone has felt ambivalent or self-conscious in new social situations. Many children are shy by temperament.  However, researchers have implicated both nurture and nature in shyness in children. New social encounters are the most frequent trigger for shyness, especially if the shy person feels herself to be the focus of attention.

Shyness can be a normal, adaptive response to potentially overwhelming social experience. By being somewhat shy, children can withdraw temporarily and gain a sense of control. Generally, as children gain experience with unfamiliar people, shyness wanes. Extremely shy children may have social skill deficits or may lack self-esteem.

What can the parent of a shy child do to help them? Dr. Pete elaborates on all these points in the podcast:

  • Listen attentively
  • Build self-esteem
  • Practice social skills
  • Allow “warm-up” time
  • Don’t label your child as shy
  • Realize the positive aspects of shyness

Thanks for listening to The Real Parenting Show with Dr. Pete & Sara… and remember, even though you may not always feel like it, you are the most influential person in your child’s life! If you have any questions or topics you’d like to suggest for future shows, please comment on this blog or call 877.980.2828. Click below to listen to all of Dr. Pete’s straightforward advice and practical tips for real parents raising real kids in the real world, and we hope you’ll subscribe to get our podcast each week.

Dr. Pete and Sara are also the co-authors of Stress-Free Potty Training, A Commonsense Guide To Finding The Right Approach For Your Child (AMACOM Books, 2008). We include an entire chapter on potty training sensitive children who may exhibit shyness. Check out our website, www.StressFreePottyTraining.com, for more information.

Please note that nothing on The Real Parenting Show should be construed as professional psychological advice specific to you or your child. If you have concerns for anyone in your family, it’s important to make an appointment with a licensed mental health professional in your local area.

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