Understanding Shyness When Meeting New People

Hi there, little friend! Sometimes, when we meet new people, we can feel a bit shy or nervous. That’s completely okay! Let’s talk about why this happens and what we can do to feel better.

Why Do We Feel Shy?

1. New Faces: When we see someone we don’t know, it can feel a bit scary, just like seeing a big, fluffy dog that we’ve never met before.

2. Worries About What to Say: You might think, “What if I don’t have anything to talk about with them?” or “What if they don’t like me?”

3. Not Knowing Their Games: Sometimes we feel shy because we don’t know what games they like to play or what they like to talk about.

How Can We Feel Better?

1. Take a Deep Breath: When you feel shy, take a deep breath in and let it out slowly. This helps calm your feelings.

2. Smile: When you smile at someone, it makes you look friendly! Most of the time, they’ll smile back at you.

3. Start with a Simple Hello: You can say “Hi!” or “Hello!” That’s a great way to start talking!

4. Ask a Question: If you want to keep talking, you can ask them, “What’s your favorite color?” or “Do you like to play in the park?” These questions are very friendly!

5. Play Together: Sometimes, just joining into their game is the best way to make new friends! You can show them how to play together.

Practice with Someone You Know

Try practicing how to say hello or ask questions with a family member or a close friend. This will help make you feel more comfortable when you meet new people.

Remember

It’s totally normal to feel shy! Every time you say hello to someone new, you’re getting better at meeting friends. Just take your time, and soon, making new friends will be a fun adventure!