Maybe your child recently started attending school, and you thought it would help them grow out of their introverted, shy self. Instead, they’re struggling with making friends, and it’s taking them longer than other children.

This can be a cause of legitimate concern among caregivers and for all the right reasons.

Reasons why your Child Is Not Making Friends

There can be a variety of reasons why your child is unable to make friends at school. To help your child, you must sit them down and have a conversation to see what’s on their minds. Here’s why your child may not be able to make friends too easily.

1. They’re Shy and Anxious

One reason your child is struggling with making friends may be a lack of self-esteem and confidence. They may simply not have enough courage to interact or feel too vulnerable around their peers and therefore hold back from interacting.

2. They Lack Social Skills

Another reason may stem from your child displaying a lack of adequate social skill. They may lack empathy or be engaging in antisocial behavior like being aggressive, selfish, or controlling.

What Can You Do About It?

In order to help your child, here are a few things you can do:

1. Attune Yourself to Their Interests

To begin to help them, get to know your child better. Get in touch with their likes and dislikes and help them become comfortable in letting people into their bubble. Showing interest in their activities can also help tackle self-esteem issues and let them feel heard and seen.

2. Talk to Them

If your child is unable to make friends, it may be because they cannot sustain conversation. Talking to them helps them get past these issues and encourages them to find their opinion and express it healthily.

3. Model Positive Social Behavior

Your children pick up on cues from your behavior. If your child is finding it hard to make friends, it might be a good idea to reflect on your own behavior. Make sure you’re not displaying any negative behaviors for them to pick up.

4. Don’t Rush the Process

Finally, once you’re done with your job, you can let go. Don’t helicopter parent and accept the phase they are in for as long as it lasts.

Your child’s social setting is important in helping them interact and make friends. At The Whole Child Development Center, your children get the opportunity to interact with others like them and groom their personalities. The child development center in Lenexa, Kansas, encourages play and interaction to help your child open up. Avail the best after school child care and help your child. Head over and see our website to know more about our after school care.