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Childhood shyness is common and it causes concern for some parents.  A child may be shy because of many reasons, such as, harsh living situations, neglected or rejected.  In some cases, shyness can be disabling.  Extremely shy children can find it hard to socialize at school and the longer this goes on the more reclusive they can become.  Some children just need time to adjust to a new setting and they will do well in relationships and social settings.  Parents can guide their children into social situations and they can learn how to interact in a successful way.  Children want to be liked but sometimes are rejected by their peers.  When a child is rejected it could be because of their impulsive and disruptive behavior.  This can lead to a child being neglected.  Which often means they are ignored, forgotten, not invited to parties, or picked last for teams.  Successful socializing interactions require skills and special ways of interacting.  Parents should look for these skills in their children and help develop them.

• Forgiving
• Apologizing
• Expressing  affection
• Sharing
• Asking for help
• Helping others
• Comforting someone
• Doing favors
• Keeping secrets
• Sticking up for a friend

Here are ways to show your child how much you love them on Valentine’s Day or every day.  

1. Use plenty of positive and encouraging words with your child.
2. Make an extra effort to set a good example about how to connect and talk with other people at home and in public.
3. Respond promptly and lovingly to your child’s physical and emotional needs
4. When your child is angry, grouchy, or in a bad mood, give him a quick hug, cuddle, pat, secret nod or other sign of affection he responds to and then consider talking with him about it when he’s feeling better.
5. Use non-violent forms of discipline.
6. Make plans to spend time alone with your young child or teen doing something she enjoys on a regular basis.
7. Mark family game nights on your calendar so the entire family can look forward to having ways to enjoy spending time together.
8. Consider owning a pet, if possible. Having a pet can help make some children, especially those with chronic illnesses and disabilities, feel better by increasing their physical activity, enhancing their overall feelings, and offering another way to connect with someone they care about.
9. One of the best ways to have your child learn more about good food choices is to encourage him to cook with you.
10. As your child grows up, she’ll spend most of her time improving upon a variety of skills and abilities that she gains in all areas of her life.
11. Your child’s health depends a lot on the care and support you offer during his early years.
12. Help your child foster positive relationships with friends, siblings and members of the community.
13. One of your most important gifts as a parent is to help your child develop self-esteem.
14. Don’t forget to say, “I love you” to children of all ages!