Elementary children participation?

Question

I am teaching summer courses on Self Esteem and have a class with 3 girls grades 4-6. It is nice to have a small group so we can all talk and have fun...but there is a problem! They don't talk, are extremely shy and even when I involve them in the talk and conversation they shy away. It's a bit frustrating!! Any suggestions on activities, things to teach that will involve them?

Answer 1

Maybe less talk and more activities (art projects, obstacle courses etc). Something that will get them up and active, something non-competitive, and maybe a bit silly. If they are shy, being forced to talk is not going to help their self-esteem.