The pandemic has really shaken things up for our kids, affecting everything from their academic growth to their mental well-being. While our introverted kids may have managed just fine cocooning at home, our extroverted ones struggled with the isolation. I thought that once life returned to normal, our social butterflies would easily bounce back. But what I didn’t expect was how their social skills seemed to vanish alongside the old normal. Now, they face a unique challenge: learning to step out of their introverted shells and reclaim the spotlight.
It’s completely okay to be an introvert, but many kids need a little nudge to reconnect with the world. Lifehack’s Jamie Roberts suggests some strategies to help your inner introvert engage with what can feel like a daunting environment, including “RELAX, GET COMFORTABLE” and “JUST DO IT!” According to Jamie, it’s essential for your child to view social situations as exciting opportunities to meet new people. Convincing them to see these interactions as adventures can feel just as far-fetched as persuading them that a trip to the dentist is thrilling.
As a parent, you’ll want practical approaches to help ease your newly introverted kid back into society. Here are a few strategies that might just do the trick:
Be Their Sidekick
Act as a supportive partner while they navigate this new, slightly intimidating world. A trip to the grocery store can be a low-pressure way for them to communicate. You might ask them to grab cereal in a busy aisle or help unload groceries at checkout, where they’ll have to respond to the inevitable “Did you find everything you need?” Even if their replies are short, these little interactions are exactly what they need to practice.
Enroll Them in Activities
Instead of pushing them to seek out friends with similar interests, consider signing them up for a group where those connections are built-in—like a gaming club or even something like a Dungeons and Dragons group. This way, they can enjoy shared experiences without the pressure of initiating conversations.
Encourage Small Talk Practice
Most of us aren’t fans of small talk, but it’s a necessary skill. When my son, Alex, was in elementary school, he admitted he didn’t know how to chat with his classmates. Together, we brainstormed openers like “What did you do this weekend?” and practiced maintaining eye contact. We even reminded him of these pointers before school. This method could help your pandemic-impacted introvert rediscover their extroverted side, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of meeting new people and participating in fun activities.
As we all know, pushing a child too hard can lead to stubborn resistance, and that’s the last thing we want. Remember what therapist Laura Jensen says: Success lies in “gentle nudges rather than forceful pushes.”
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In summary, helping your introverted child re-engage with their extroverted side after the pandemic requires patience, gentle encouragement, and practical strategies. By being their ally, enrolling them in group activities, and helping them practice social skills, you can guide them back into the vibrant world of social interaction.
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