Social Skills                                                                                                                                                                                            Back to Healthy Living

All children require opportunities to mix with others of a similar age in order to develop social skills, be able to form friendships, solve problems and share their experiences.

Social and emotional well-being is perhaps the most significant part of a child’s development. Without love, friendship or security children can struggle to learn and progress in other areas. Children need to feel happy and secure in order to remain motivated and successful individuals.

It is essential that your child is provided with opportunities from an early age to mix with other children and learn key social skills. Children need to interact with others their own age, in different settings and environments.

There are many ways in which you as parents and carers can foster strong levels of social and emotional well-being.

•      Invite friends of a similar age over to play. It is beneficial for children to spend time with others their own age and interact with children from a range of different backgrounds.

•     Ask other children out on trips with your child e.g. to the park, museum or beach. This will give your child the chance to build up their social skills and help them to relate to others. Children need to share experiences and learn to empathise with others.

•      Get involved with a charity. Talk about helping other people and animals around you and encourage them to think about how others might be feeling.

•      Encourage your child to show care and consideration to other people. Perhaps helping a younger sibling or elderly relative. It could be something small e.g. getting their Grandmother’s slipper or sharing something special to them. By involving your child and giving them responsibilities they feel valued and understand the need to show respect and concern for others.

•      Spend quality one-to-one time with your child. Talk about their feelings and the things that make them happy. Give them the opportunity to raise any worries they may have with you. Show a comforting and loving attitude towards them so they feel love and security.

•     Set aside family time where everyone gets together to do something special. It is essential that children belong to a strong family unit in which they feel secure. Whether you are a single parent or carer or have other children and a large extended family, spending quality time together is very valuable. By participating in activities together stronger relationships will develop within the family e.g. by going on a family outing everyone has the opportunity to interact and spend time with one another.

•      Praise your child and give them opportunities to succeed. Encourage them to pursue a hobby they enjoy. This allows them to learn and develop new skills and meet other people which share their interest. i.e. ballet, horse riding, swimming, gymnastics.

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