Convey acceptance by noting that they don’t have to enter into long uncomfortable conversations — they just need to be able to offer their name and age.
y kids are painfully shy. It’s embarrassing when they can barely say their name or age when asked by guests or even family members. What can I do to be validating but also empowering about this issue while still accepting that this is who they are (which happens to be the polar opposite of extroverted me)?
You’re on the right track by wanting to be validating and accepting of a trait that your kids have inherited. It’s not their fault that social communication is painfully uncomfortable for them. You can say something like, “I know it is hard when adults ask you to tell them something. I can see that you feel uncomfortable. I want to help you find it a lot easier to say your name or age when someone asks you.”
This would be your introductory speech. Then you can go on to teach your kids how to offer their name and age. Realistically, they’re not going to want to do a whole lot more than that for a long time, but at least they can learn to do this minimally acceptable social behavior. Moreover, being able to accomplish it will allow your children to feel more confident and happier when people are around.
Convey acceptance by noting that they don’t have to enter into long uncomfortable conversations — they just need to be able to offer their name and age.
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