ing like, I know going to a party where you dont know anyone is scary, then parents should try to offer comforting words by sharing a similar experience from their childhood (Frank, 1998, p. 115). Next she suggests that parents should refrain from being overprotective, children need to overcome their own challenges, if a parent steps in every time a situation arises, it will only reinforce the shyness. Third, she stresses the importance that parents need to model positive social interaction. She goes on to discuss calming techniques for children and other activities to help the child overcome their shyness (Frank, 1998). Informational books for young children about being shy and making friends may be helpful to ease some of the anxiety children feel. How do I Feel About Making Friends, again, is an excellent example. This book features pictures of real children going through the motions and emotions about making friends. It includes topics such as feeling lonely and difficult times, two fears that many children experience before school starts or going to a party. Another informational book that is good to share with shy children is Lets Talk About Being Shy, by Marianne Johnston. The book focuses on defining shyness and who and when a person may feel shy. The book is excellent to share with a class that may have shy students in it. The book may make those students feel better about themselves as it shows that many children feel shy and can hurt from it too.When shyness becomes a problem there are several tactics that can be implemented to help elevate the symptoms of shyness. For adults drug therapy has frequently been an option. Children one the other hand are usually kept away from drug therapy for the concern of side effects, but also because many children may overcome their shyness through behavior therapies, on their own, or with help from friends (Zimbardo, 1981). Much shyness in children develops from a fear that everyone is focu...
