Tips to Boost Your Toddler’s Confidence

Don’t  Compare

It’s never a good idea to compare your child to others, whether it’s a more outgoing friend or an overachieving sibling. Instead, focus on what makes your child different and let her know how special that part of her personality is. If your child knows he or she is different because she is adopted, let her know just how special that is, help her learn to embrace it. Read books, watch movies, and talk about adoption in a loving way. So if your child isn’t particularly athletic but loves to draw, sign her up for an art class where she can be around other kids with the same interest.

Watch Your Words

Talk about shyness as how your child FEELS, not WHO she is. For example, if your daughter is hiding behind your leg and refusing to say hello to Grandpa, you might be tempted to say something like, “Sorry, Grandpa. She’s shy.” Instead, tell your her, “You feel shy right now. That’s OK — you can say hello when you’re ready.” “It’s a subtle difference, but saying ‘You feel’ is much better than saying ‘You are,’ because it names a momentary state, rather than the essence of your child’s being”.

Show Her The Way

Be an example of friendliness in front of your child. At play dates, you can even engage her friends in small talk (“I love your new doll, Emily. What’s her name?”). Kids love to mimic their parents’ behavior, so seeing you at ease with others will show her there’s nothing to fear.

Plan in Advance

Before you expose him to certain situations, explain in detail what you are going to do and what he is going to do. For example, before going to a birthday party, you should tell him who’s going to be there, what will be going on (“We’re going to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to AJ and eat some cake!”), what toys he might get to play with, etc. If it helps, have him bring something from home — his favorite toy, for instance — that will make him feel more secure when he gets there

Stick with Small Groups

Even a child who is usually outgoing can feel overwhelmed around larger groups of children, so for a toddler on the quiet side, a room full of screaming kids can be torture. At this stage, it’s best to limit your child’s play dates to only a few pals. Then, as your child starts to feel more comfortable around other tots, you can begin introducing her to other kids or sign her up for classes where there will be more children around.

Don’t Push Too Hard

Research shows that kids, whose parents push them too far, too quickly, end up withdrawing even more. Because shy children feel uncertainty and anxiety in certain social situations, when parents force them to participate, it just makes them more anxious; making it less likely they’ll be willing to give it a try the next time.

But Don’t Overprotect

On the other hand, it’s important that you give your child opportunities to succeed in new situations. “Help your little one take gentle steps in the direction of achievement and accomplishment. Freely use the phrase, ‘I’ll do it with you,’ and say things like, ‘I know it’s hard (or you’re uncomfortable), but I’ll be with you. Let’s just give it a try.’ “

Compliment His Confidence

Even if it’s a small step — saying hi to the neighbor — be sure to let your child know how proud you are of his progress. “Every chance you have, and especially when your kid is next to you, comment on his newly acquired skills”

Give Her Lots of Love

Parents need to make building a secure and loving attachment to their child a priority, which will in turn help their child develop self-esteem and confidence. Knowing that you’re around to watch over her and lend a hand when needed will help your child feel comfortable being around others. So no matter what, be sure to shower your toddler with lots of hugs and kisses!

Read the full article by By Linda DiProperzio at Parents.com