Easy ways to Integrate Social Skills into Your Kid’s Repertoire

Posted On: May 7, 2018 By Jim Newton

Growing kids develop at different paces, and social skills usually arise naturally the more they are exposed to new people, places, and things. If you’re concerned that your child is a “late bloomer,” don’t panic—children’s personalities also play a huge part in how and when social skills emerge. For instance, children who are naturally more shy or introverted might take a little more time to warm up, and that’s perfectly normal. However, there are things we can do as parents and caregivers to help the process of socialization go a little more smoothly.

Depending on your child’s age, certain socialization mechanisms might be more appropriate than others. Younger children usually feel a strong sense of security with their most loved family members, and getting them to open up to others is often part of a gradual transition into a school atmosphere. Older children might have more of a foundation in social skills already, but just need a little more encouragement to try new things and meet new people outside of school. In this article we’ll talk about some ideas and suggestions for parents to try that could help social skills develop more rapidly with all ages of children.

Enroll in Preschool

For younger children especially, preschool is a safe place where they can gradually feel more comfortable with other children and caring adults. Finding a preschool that fits you and your child’s needs will be most beneficial for your child, especially if you’d like to enhance his or her social skills while they learn new activities and explore their creativity.

Join Afterschool Activities

Many children enjoy school alone, and that’s quite sufficient for nurturing the development of social skills; however, some kids might need a little extra stimulation and support from a team environment. Getting your kids involved in extracurricular activities, such as sports, music lessons, dance lessons, theater, etc. can be a great way to develop a range of skills, including how to communicate with others effectively.

Schedule Play Dates

Ayurveda is an age old medicinal science that has for centuries researched and tested herbal concoction for holistic health. online cialis prescription Dancing, partying, music and laughter fill the streets, where every storefront seems to become a club of some sort. levitra generika 10mg However, good diabetes care and management can prevent or get around the effects of erectile dysfunction canadian pharmacies viagra by sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Are the side-effects dangerous or of major in nature? The medicine can cause slight effects post consumption such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue or nasal congestion and they are considered as best herbal supplement for treating side effects of this generic version of viagra on line prescription e congestion, upset stomach, facial flushing and urinary tract infections. If you’d like a more controlled, intimate setting to observe and aid your child’s interaction with others, play dates can be an important step in getting their feet wet in the social pond without dunking them in head first. Reaching out to other family members or friends who have children to schedule play time can be a good step toward helping your child develop problem-solving and interactional skills in a possibly less-intimidating setting.

Plan Family Fun

Many parents avoid going out to in public places with their children for many reasons, including: safety issues, perceived embarrassment, or it can just seem like a hassle. Restaurants are a common place to avoid for parents of younger children or larger families because it is a unique type of social setting where very specific manners and social skills are utilized. Getting out as a family is a good way to practice these skills together and communicate to your child that as a family you can get through any experience by supporting and encouraging each other—but let’s not forget boundary setting! Restaurants are one avenue to explore setting disciplinary boundaries, as your child will test your ability to follow through with your promises (i.e. leaving the restaurant if they act out).

Enroll in Summer Camps

Since many children spend a majority of their days in school, finding fun activities and meeting new people is something they can focus more on over the summer. Summer camps offer families an opportunity to help children develop social skills as well as new hobbies, to continue learning in school off-hours, and to expand their comfort zone.

Our Philosophy on Social Skill Development

The childcare experts here at Great Beginnings Child Care and Learning Center in Sugar Hill, GA, have a foundational knowledge about child development concepts, including how to integrate social skill building into curriculum. We offer plenty of fun programs and activities, including summer camps, for the families in our community to help their children thrive in all the domains of child development. If you’re the parent of a growing child and want to learn more about how you can help them develop their social skills, please contact one of our helpful professionals for information about the programs we offer.