Social Challenges
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Education:
The ability to make new friends comes naturally to many school aged kids, however some kids find it difficult and frustrating to connect with peers. These kids prefer the safety of familiar peers narrowing their choices due to fear of feeling awkward and uncomfortable.
In school a child may know all the answers but be unable to speak in front of the class. They feel embarrassed and afraid and feel they are watched or criticised by others. They might spend a lot of time alone and suffer from stomach upsets and headaches. They are particularly vulnerable to loneliness, social isolation and bullying.
Empowerment:
Children benefit from parents’ guidance in developing the skills they need to connect with peers. You can focus on your child’s strengths and what they are good at doing well and address their social challenges by increasing their confidence.
Spending time helping your child learn the new skills in making and keeping friends. Breaking down interpersonal skills into a small number of key skills can help your child master it slowly. Also teaching kids what to look for in a friend and show them what positive friendships look like. You can teach your child how to show warmth and sincerity by saying sentences like “how have you been doing?”
Questions you can ask your health care team if you have concerns?
- Why has my child trouble connecting with other kids?
- What activities can I or the teacher do with my child to help increase their social skills and confidence?
- Are you aware of any local programs that can help my child feel more comfortable in social situations?
It is difficult seeing your child not being able to connect with peers and being able to make friends. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist will help ease the anxiety and can give you coping strategies and activities to help your child.
“Do one thing every day that scares you” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.
NurtureConnect
Confirmation Content
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Inspirational stories, delivered to your inbox.
