healthykids
Talking, explains, “Introverts are not antisocial, they just prefer socializing in lower-key ways.” They usually form a few deep and intimate relationships compared to extroverts that often culti- vate many friends. Christine Fonseca, an educational
psychologist and author of Quiet Kids, notes the danger in misunderstanding a child’s hesitancy or reserved nature. “Kids can benefit from understand- ing who they are and what it means to be an introvert. Otherwise, they may compare themselves to their extrovert friends and feel deficient.” Introverts own many exceptional
Quiet Kids in a Noisy World
Bringing Out the Best in Introverts by Meredith Montgomery
G
abrielle Perillo’s daughter, A’ngel, 11, is a deep thinker, compas- sionate for all beings (human and not), a defender of justice, spiritual and extremely creative. She pursues any sub- ject she studies with focus and passion. Although other children are naturally drawn to her, A’ngel, a born introvert, generally prefers to play quietly on her own. At first, her mother worried that her daughter was being insensitive to others and not paying attention to her sur-
roundings. But once Mom released her own emotional projections, she recog- nized how happy her daughter is in her own space and began to appreciate the benefits of this independence. At least a third of Americans are
introverts, yet many parents are prone to mischaracterize their more private children as antisocial, self-centered and lonely. Susan Cain, a former corporate attorney and author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop
qualities. They tend to be deep thinkers able to work independently in highly creative and innovative ways. They may prefer to learn a lot about a few topics instead of a little about many different areas. Often described as empathetic, conscientious and self-aware, introverts make authentic leaders and effective managers as adults. Introvert and extrovert tempera- ments are distinguished by how in- dividuals generate energy. Introverts process the world and recharge through solitude; many can flourish in social situations as long as they can rejuve- nate by being on their own. Fonseca notes a defining difference
in physiology. “Introverts use part of the nervous system that has a long pathway from point A to point B, so it takes them longer to process information.” Cain adds, “Introverts also
usually have a longer runway than others, so it takes them longer to take off and fly. It’s crucial that the mes- sage they’re receiving from parents and teachers is, ‘That’s okay.’” It’s important that parents balance how they honor a child’s preferences with teaching them skills to thrive. “Don’t expect them to follow the gang,” says Cain. “Instead, encourage them to fol- low their passions.” Parents can empower children with tools to increase their comfort zone. If youngsters have difficulty speaking up in class, it helps to prepare them with what they want to say beforehand. Cain notes that this lessens anxiety and when they are able to speak up, they’ll feel like part of the class.
Simple tips can offer relief in un- 46 Collier/Lee Counties
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