Some children are naturally social, while others take more time to warm up. Although there’s nothing wrong with letting kids take their time, it's important for kids to learn how to socialize and get along with others. You can support them as they learn to make friends and nurture relationships in preschool and beyond. Here are some tips to apply with your children. 

How to Build Social Skills in Preschool-Aged Kids

1. Practice Interactions With Them

Children learn by observing their parents and other close family members, so model conversational skills throughout the day by asking them questions and encouraging back-and-forth conversations. You could even make it a game by pretending you’re doing an interview after a big game or news event. Demonstrate other positive social behaviors, like sharing toys and offering compliments as well. 

2. Schedule Play Dates

Children need to be comfortable socializing with people outside their main family unit. If they’re in school or child care, ask them or their teacher if there are any kids they’re especially close with and schedule one-on-one play dates to nurture those relationships. Additionally, visiting friends and extended family members can stretch their social skills by exposing them to different people regularly. 

3. Don’t Pressure Them

Every child learns social skills at their own speed, so don’t force interactions, as this could make them feel bad about not making friends right away. Instead, simply put them in situations where they can converse with you, other family members, or classmates regularly. Even if you schedule a play date and just let each kid play independently, they may eventually reach out to converse or share toys when they feel comfortable enough in that situation. 

If you’re looking for a preschool or child care center that nurtures social skills without pressure, contact Penn Garden Daycare Center Inc. in Monroeville, PA. The family-owned and -operated facility aims to help all children feel respected, regardless of their background or abilities. The team has more than 80 years of combined experience in early childhood education, so they have the skills necessary to nurture each child based on their unique needs and personality. Visit the website for a full list of preschool and day care options, or call (412) 372-4144 to schedule a tour.