Difficult Situations for the Shy Child, and What You Could do as a Mentor

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Being a shy girl myself has made me extra sensitive to those who are also shy. I have a very soft spot for the shy children, knowing that being shy in an extrovert-dominating community is a tough experience. Shy people have their own strengths as well that needed to be recognized. Doing many things that are easy for most people are quite difficult from the shy child's perspective, especially when there is a social aspect in the task.

If you are a parent or teacher, always be supportive of the shy child. They are very sensitive. Any kind of ridicule would force them to shut themselves. Doing things for the first time makes the child feel anxious, that's why a little gentle nudge plus words of encouragements are the ingredients to help the child develop into a healthy and confident person. Take note, don't attempt to take away shyness completely. It is a quality, not an abnormality. Embrace the child for who he/she is, yet help him/her reach out and develop self-confidence. That should be your goal as the child's mentor.

Dealing with Shy Children

Don't push a shy kid too hard. Learn to build his trust and confidence.

Source: Photo by Ernst Vikne/Flickr

Shy people are often misunderstood. Shyness is often seen as a defect in personality. Parents who have shy kids tend to push them too hard in order for them to become more outgoing. Of course, they do not have any bad intentions for their kids. They just think that being more outgoing will make their kids grow up to become successful adults. However, dealing with these kids requires a lot of patience. Some might shut themselves off when pushed beyond their limits. I have even seen children who refuse to speak to strangers, teachers, classmates, relatives or neighbours except to the immediate family. When this happens, shyness might become a hindrance to the child’s well-being.