8 Important Social Skills for Children and How to Teach Them

We often tend to think of children as naturally social creatures. Many times, interacting with peers is second nature for them.

However, basic interactions and developing strong social skills are two different things.

Strong-willed children are often independent, determined, and have strong opinions. But they can also be impatient, argumentative, and even stubborn. 

As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to foster social skills in your children from an early age. Doing so can build confidence, help them to be better communicators, and set them up for success later in life. 

With that in mind, let’s cover a few of the most important social skills for children and how you can effectively teach them.

1. Introductions

Your child will meet a lot of new people throughout their lives.

They’ll make a strong first impression and connection when they know how to introduce themselves properly.

Encourage them to make eye contact, state their name while offering a greeting, and use a pleasant voice.

2. Active Listening

Communication is about more than just speaking.

Teaching your child to listen when others are talking is incredibly important.

• Ensure they know to stay focused when someone is talking and avoid distractions.

• They can ask questions for clarity, nod, and use other nonverbal skills to let that person know they’re paying attention. 
  

3. Asking for Help

Everyone needs a hand sometimes.

Kids are constantly learning and growing, and it’s important that they know it’s okay to ask for help.

• Let them know how to describe a problem to someone accurately to convey what they need.

• When someone does help them out, teach them the importance of showing gratitude with a simple “thank you” before they move on. 
  

4. Appreciation

Speaking of gratitude, it’s an essential skill to learn early on.

Most parents are quick to encourage their children to say “thank you” when something is done for them or given to them.

But, you can foster this skill even more by encouraging your child to let someone know why they’re grateful or why the action was so beneficial to them.

Using a pleasant voice, smiling, and keeping eye contact are also small ways that gratitude and appreciation can make a difference.

5. Arguing the Right Way

People don’t always agree.

Because children can sometimes have a hard time understanding and expressing their emotions, it’s essential for them to know how to disagree respectfully and effectively. 

• Let them know to lead with respect, no matter what.

• Encourage them to use a calm voice, listen to the other person’s point of view, and offer their own without getting upset.
  

6. Apologizing

Everyone makes mistakes sometimes.

While an apology doesn’t necessarily erase the bad things that happen, it can go a long way when done correctly.

• Apologies need to include saying exactly what you’re sorry for and why. 

• When your child apologizes to someone, teach them the importance of being sincere and not making excuses.

Direct apologies can make a big difference in mending relationships and allowing people to move forward.

7. Sharing

It’s not always easy for kids to share things they’re interested in. But, it’s an essential skill to learn that they’ll take with them into adulthood.

You can encourage your child to share very early in life.

• Teach them how to take turns with their toys or how to give to someone in need.

• You can show them how good it feels to share by praising them when they do.

Fostering this skill early on can help your child be more giving and empathetic later in life. 

8. Empathy

Speaking of empathy, you might think it’s a skill that can’t be learned, but it absolutely can.

You can help your child develop empathy by encouraging them to pay attention to other people’s feelings.

• For example, if your child says or does something hurtful to a friend, ask them how they think those actions made that friend feel.

• Reading books that focus on emotions is another great way to teach your child about empathy. 

There are so many additional social skills to cover, but starting with the basics is a great way to make sure your child thrives in this very social world. 

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