Help a shy child by empathizing, not pressuring

San Jose Mercury News
Barbara Meltz (Boston Globe)
June 1, 2005

Middle school is often the most difficult time in the life of a shy child due to the social pressures of “fitting in”. Experts identify the differences between a truly shy child and one who is just slow to warm up to new social situations. The truly shy child stays on the periphery of social situations; a slow-to-warm-up child will eventually join in once she feels comfortable. Psychologist Marilyn Buckler, a consultant with the Open Circle Social Competency Program at the Wellesley Centers for Women, warns that parents, who aggressively address their child’s shyness, run the risk of pushing a slow-to-warm-up child toward becoming a truly shy child. The ultimate goal is to empower the child so that she is able to address the shyness herself.  Read more

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