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| by
Kate Cohen-Posey Therapist |
 |
Question:
What can I do to help my 7-year-old daughter overcome her shyness and improve her self image?
Answer:
Keep in mind that all people have different temperaments and some people are naturally shy so do not push her too hard. Shyness does not always mean people have a poor self image. That aside, give her lots of opportunities to be with groups of people she knows well. Encourage her to be involved in scouts, dance, martial arts or any other activity she might enjoy. If a friend or neighbor will also participate, that will help tremendously. You might even reward her for making mistakes and goofing to keep her from putting too much pressure on herself.
Shy people are usually afraid others will think they are foolish so it's good if you can practice making mistakes together. Do silly things yourself, like asking where the lettuce is the video store. Above all, remember that many children grow out of this and if she doesn't there is considerable help in the mental health field.