Almost all of us fall victim to parenting myths of one kind or another. Get the real scoop on social skill development.

Myth:

You don't have to worry about teaching social skills until children make friends with other kids.

Fact:

Peers help to shape children's attitudes and behavior, but parents lay the groundwork for social development. Experts say that it's early relationships with parents that lay the foundation on which later friendships are built.

What can you do when your child is still a toddler?

  • Show consideration for your child's feelings, desires and needs.
  • Show affection.
  • Express an interest in her daily activities. Talk, read and notice what interests her.
  • Listen carefully when she tries to communicate. Learn to read the signals she sends, even before she can speak.
  • Show pride when she accomplishes something new.
  • Encourage and support her during times of stress.
  • When making rules, explain why you've made certain decisions.

 

Source: "New Understandings of How Children Grow and Learn," EC-PEN listserv.