SUNDAY, Aug. 25, 2024 (HealthDay News) — When you have young children, you spend most of your time changing diapers and feeding them, but one expert suggests socialization is also important for your child's future well-being.
Socialization from an early age helps children develop communication skills and foster a sense of community and empathy. Relationships teach young children perspective, taking turns, and meaningful friendships.
Conversely, “socialization provides the benefit of peer support and friendship, which strengthens your sense of self,” says Eric Storch, PhD, associate chair of psychology at the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine. “Not only do friends provide emotional support, but they, along with significant others, also provide feedback that helps shape the person you become.”
With that in mind, he says, social interaction is necessary from the very beginning. For babies and young children, time spent with family is crucial for their development. As they grow, they move closer to their families while also transferring their social energy to peers and friends.
What if your child struggles in social situations?
While there's no prescription for the best amount and type of socialization for children, Storch said parents should focus on their children if they're struggling in certain social situations.
That could be due to anxiety or simply differences in interests, or it could be because the pandemic has kept kids from going to school and other social settings, Storch said. While most children have recovered, some are suffering more than others and are struggling with behavioral problems.
Storch suggests that parents and caregivers can help their children succeed in social situations by:
Create opportunities for your child to be themselves. Every child is different — some enjoy sports, others play Dungeons & Dragons. Allow your child to be themselves in the way they interact with others.
Encourage risk-taking: It's helpful to get kids out of their comfort zones in safe ways.
Join a group. Group settings help children develop social skills.
Talk to a mental health professional. If you're concerned about your child's social skills or notice any behavioral issues, such as anxiety or depression, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor or mental health professional.
Source: Baylor College of Medicine, news release, August 19, 2024
What this means for you
Take the time to socialize your young child — the benefits to their mental health and well-being are worth it.
