Parenting by Personality: Part IV

If you and your different-from-you child have problems communicating or connecting, it is up to you to figure out the best way to reconnect. Today we will be looking at The Innie vs. the Outie. Your child is an introvert and you're an extrovert. According to an article in the June/July issue of Working Mother magazine, what you need to know is that although your child's shyness may worry you because you love to socialize, it's only a problem it it's a problem for the child. Spending time alone may mean the child enjoys their own company, a sign of good self-esteem. Talk to your child's teacher to determine how he/she interacts socially at school; could be they are just cautious and takes time to make friends, which is a trait you may want to encourage.

What to do.

1. Work off of your child's strength. Point out to the child if they are observant. (examples)"You got to know Billy before you felt comfortable going to his house. I thought that showed good thinking." or "I could tell you didn't feel comfortable with Ms. Jones the first time you met her. It's okay that you didn't want to hold her hand. I'm glad you did what you thought was best. You should always do that."

2. Role-play ways to meet new people that allow your child to stay in their comfort zone without seeming rude, and do it in baby steps.

3. If you're worried your child isn't socializing enough with peers, ask if there's someone he/she like to invite over to play or meet at the park.