But what happens when parents hesitate to come forward and try something new which is out of their comfort zone? Well, if the parents are introverts, it can get difficult for the kids as well. Imagine that you’re an introvert, which means you don’t want to go out of your comfort zone or mingle with people from different environments. So now, how can you possibly teach your child the same when you want them to be socially interactive?
It can be emotionally exhausting to raise a child who is socially interactive, experimental and loves to meet new people every day. That’s just not the same as you. Studies have shown that introvert parents find it really difficult to raise children who are extrovert in nature. A child definitely blooms on their own, but a parent’s support is essential to provide the child with the knowledge about basics and experiences of life.
So what can be the solution to this?
A step-by-step approach from introvert parents on how to parent extrovert kids. Sounds assuring? These points will surely be a huge help to some of the parents out there fighting this tussle inside.
1. Indulge in interesting conversations
You may find this point to be dreadful but it can be a huge game-changer for both of you. Conversations obviously interest you, so you can relay the same to your child. You just have to add a little bit of twist in it, saying that it’s a game. Socially active children love playing games. They spring to play any types of games, at whatever chance they get. So, you can indulge inspirational values in the bedtimes stories you read to them or add motivation quotes by famous writers or people every time your child intends to climb the ladder of success. While driving back from the burger drive-in, tell your child what matters to you and ask them the same. It can be really helpful.
2. Invite your friend over play-dates
If your partner is not an extrovert like you, then it’s all good. However, if he also prefers a ‘one-man company’ over dinner with a large group of people, then you have to tread carefully. Interaction with other kids and playtime is very important for a child. They learn to be social and also enjoy playing outside in the park or over a board game of Ludo. In such situations, if there are many children and their mothers have come over too, you can always ask one of your close friends or someone you know to accompany you. This can be really reassuring as they will get the free environment to interact more at a large children’s play-date party.
3. Respect each other’s preferences from an early age
If you fill your words with positivity and are successful in making your child understand that everyone has their preferences, then you’re doing it right. You have to talk to your child about this, and it’s absolutely necessary. Make them understand in their own way that their parents may prefer different things and the child can want other things. Cite examples of their friends or of some character from a Disney movie. They will understand it faster and better. Once they know that it’s perfectly alright to be different from their parents, the child will be more open and understanding. They will respect your wishes and love you for being open about your likes.
4. Appreciate their personality
Always let your child know that their personality, even if is different from yours, is radiant and bright and all things good. Validate their choices and likes and tell them how proud you are of them. Letting them know publicly and privately can make them very happy. Acknowledgement and recognition are also very essential for a growing child’s personality.
5. Take out time for yourself
Looking out for your child is, by all means, necessary, but do not forget to enjoy time to yourself. We understand that it can be exhausting to have a child who is much more extrovert than you, so taking a time-out can be really important for revitalisation. It’s simple, if you keep struggling to cope up with the situations, it can also take a toll on your mental health and it’s high time that we prioritise our health as parents too.
These points can be a life-saver if you’re looking for ways to deal with parenting an extrovert child. However, if things still become more overwhelming, then you need to reach out for help, i.e therapy. They can be really helpful because therapists are professionally skilled to help you out with your problems. Being able to contribute to your child’s mental development can be a proud moment for you too. After all, a healthy and stable environment would also mean well for the kids.
