Module 2 • Behaviour Problems
• Be careful not to label your child as ‘shy’. Children (and adults) tend to live up to the labels others give them.
• Don’t let other people label your child as shy either. • Never criticise or mock your child when they are shy. Be supportive, empathic and understanding.
• Encourage your child to talk about the reasons for their shyness – what are they afraid of? • Tell your child about times in your life when you have been shy and how you overcame it. Since young children often see their parents as perfect, admitting to your own shyness can make your child feel better and reduce their overall anxiety.
• Be outgoing yourself. Model confident behaviour and lead by example. 5 Strategies for the parent and educator
It is possible for the parent and educator to encourage the child to be more outgoing. Strategies depend on the individual child and circumstances but can include:
• Share personal coping strategies you’ve learned over the years on overcoming shyness. Practise these strategies with your child.
• Tell your child about themany advantages of not being shy. Offer examples from your own life.
• Encourage outgoing behaviour. Praise your child when they handle an unfamiliar situation or meet a new person without resorting to shyness.
• Try goal-setting with your child. Aim for small, incremental steps and praise them for their progress. For example, saying “hello” to another child may be a big first step.
• Deliberately take your child into new situations. Aim for small changes in behaviour first and gradually build up. For example, reward a child if they greet someone who is new to them. Be supportive.
• Make sure your child is allowed to excel in what they do best. Praise them for skills they have mastered.
• Reassure the child that is he loved unconditionally. 6 Professional help
If the child’s shyness is severe, you may like to consider professional help from a counsellor or psychologist. Treatment options include:
• stress management • relaxation strategies • counselling sessions • social skills training.
7 Where to get help
• your doctor (for a referral to a specialist service) • psychologist • child help-line.
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