The importance of socializing

Having meaningful interactions and relationships with others, kiddos develop socially as they gain experience, skills, and values that are useful. As young children begin to understand the characteristics of positive friendships and how to get along with others we see social development. A child’s experience at school has a large impact on their social development. Because of this, it’s important for teachers to discuss, model, and encourage positive social interactions. What happens at home is just as important.

Some tips to help guide your child to socialize in a polite, respectful way:

Infants:

• Manners – Talk to your child in a way that is positive. For example, use a kind tone and say “please” and “thank you” when asking questions or giving a response.

• Modeling – Model behaviors you eventually want to see your child exhibit. It could be as simple as waving to people to say hello or saying “good morning” and “good night” in conversation.

• Story telling - When reading with your kiddo, choose books that show kind, caring characters, and positive friendships.

Toddlers/Twos:

• Conversation – Encourage your kiddo to refer to people by their name

• Playtime – Encourage your child to be respectful when playing. Give your kiddo positive reinforcement when they play without disrupting the play of others.

• Speaking Up – Encourage your child to use words such as “stop” or “no” when someone is doing something they don’t like. Discuss with your child about how it is better to use words than to hit.

Preschool/Pre-K:

• Empathy – Model the caring and empathetic behavior you expect from your child. For example, hug someone if they are sad and explain to your child why this is a kind thing to do.

• Interactions – Model the words your child can use when they want to join a group activity. For example, “I see you want to play tag with your cousins. You should go ask politely to join the game.”

• Share Ideas – When your kiddo has play dates, encourage them to ask their friend if they would like to do a certain activity or play a certain game rather than choosing to one themselves.