I tried taking my 4 1/2 year old daughter to a WOGA class this afternoon and she totally freaked out because she didn't know anyone in the group. There were only 3 other kids in the class but she just started crying and only lasted about 15 minutes. She was excited before the class started but then freaked out. She told me she only wants to come back if one of her friends comes with her. I'd like to help her overcome this fear of meeting new friends/blending in with other kids she doesn't know. Anyone have any suggestions?
We all feel more brave when we have a buddy with us. For now I would let her bring a friend. Confidence and independence will come with time and age and experience. Until then, let her enjoy new things with the added security of a friend, nothing wrong with that.
Have one of her friends go with her if they can as she asks. If that is not possible, hang around with her until she gets comfortable or have the teacher/coach give her extra attention/welcome so she does not feel isolated. I find that an outgoing personality in a person helps get them out of their shell a bit. Good luck.
LOL! My daughter was the same way, She is now 12, Still a little shy but willing. Im sure she will grow out of it.:) I do suggest to keep trying new thing's ,It will keep her motivated .My daughter still has to have a little push now and then ,more because she dose not want to be the center of attention. Although she usualy is!!!! :)
My daughter was the same until recently... she's almost 7. My advice is not to push her. Give her opportunities to be successful with small outings like a short playdate at a neutral place like a park or lunch. She may not ever be the welcome committee, but she'll find a place that's comfortable for her. There are such big changes, socially from age 4-7!
Good luck!
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My daughter was the same until recently... she's almost 7. My advice is not to push her. Give her opportunities to be successful with small outings like a short playdate at a neutral place like a park or lunch. She may not ever be the welcome committee, but she'll find a place that's comfortable for her. There are such big changes, socially from age 4-7!
Good luck!
You need to drop her off and leave so she doesn't have the option of quitting.
Tell her that you are signed up for one session and the commitment is for one session. Explain to her that this is one way to meet new friends but the real reason you are there is to learn gymnastics.
Just keep trying. My son freaked at his first baseball practice (he was 4 1/2). Very excited to go and then cried the entire time he was on the field. He was mostly scared b/c he didn't know what he was supposed to do and didn't know anyone. We explained that was what the coach was for and he may not know anyone now but these would be his friends in a couple weeks. We had to drag him kicking and screaming for the next practice or two (we will not accept quitting, he decided he wanted to play and we were going to see it through) but then he became excited again and when the season was over he was sad there were no more games/practices. I know it sounds harsh but we weren't mean about it, just stay calm, validate you understand how she must feel (and maybe you felt that way one time and did such and such to help get over it) and let her know you will always be there for her. We have a saying we sing (think "just keep swimming" from Nemo) "Just keep trying" and we say it all the time. He even repeats it to us now when we are having trouble opening a bottle or something. Good Luck and Just Keep Trying!
