“Socialization in children is very important, even more so in this current situation of pandemic. Therefore, it is necessary to motivate them and provide them with strategies so that they can achieve it successfully. Socializing involves many aspects, such as: the way in which we communicate, gestures, respect for rules, punctuality, waiting turns, etc.”, highlights Mary Castro, a psychologist at our clinic, who provides us with guidance regarding to the topic.

Why is it so important for children to socialize?

Because cultivating and developing social skills will help your children to relate in a positive and healthy way with their environment, becoming confident, responsible adults, capable of handling emotions and complex situations in a constructive and empathic way.

Five techniques you can practice with your children:

1. Roleplay. Pretend you are two or more children and start a game or activity. This practice will be very helpful to know the way in which our children are socializing.
2. Problem resolution. Try to present them with a situation that your children may encounter on a daily basis during interaction with other children. In this way they will be able to notice what attitudes they have.
3. Wait turns. You can practice with your children to take turns to do activities or even to talk. Indeed, an important part of social skills is knowing how to listen.
4. Questions and answers. Interact with your children by asking different questions in order for them to meet new friends.
5. Teamwork. Form two teams or more, if possible, and delegate tasks that the little ones can complete in a given period of time. This will help you learn how your children are able to organize with another person to achieve a common goal.

Remember:

Sometimes, getting used to putting these techniques into practice can take our little ones a little time. Therefore, it is necessary to arm yourself with a good dose of perseverance, patience and, above all, a lot of love.

Mary Castro
Psychologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma