How would you encourage a shy child to join in on a movement activity?

Question

How would you encourage a shy child to join in on a movement activity?

Answer 1

Usually I allow them to stand by their best friend or with me - I will hold out my hand and ask "will you stand by me?"  that usually works - otherwise, give her/him time and they will join in as they are comfortable. Just don't forget about them and ask in the middle of the game if they have changed their minds and want to play now.  shy children are easy to forget about and that is not acceptable!!

Answer 2

It depends on if it's my child or in the class.  I would ask if they want to come hold my hand and we do it together.  If not, I would not worry about it because eventually they will want to join in once they get comfortable.

Answer 3

The key is to encourage it, but not require it. It has to be the child's choice to participate or not.

As others have said, the only requirement should be that the child sit near by to observe and be offered the opportunity to join in  each time. Some children are more comfortable and will participate if you are a partner with them.

So, I would be enthusiastic about the movement activities myself. Ask the child if he/she wants to join us, but if he/she said no, I'd say "Okay, you don't have to [whatever the movement is], but please sit there [somewhere near by] and watch. Join us if you change your mind."  More pressure to join activities will usually make a shy child even more resistant and self-conscious.

If it's possible for the child to always be in the back, that might help. Maybe ask the shy child to choose what movement activity she/he would like to do? You never know - the child might have some ideas for what would make him/her more comfortable and willing to participate (slow movement as opposed to fast or pretend to be animals as opposed to dancing - that sort of thing).

Answer 4

tel the child school is all about play , new toys and making new friend .

and stop saying that he/she feels shy or doesnt like going to school in front of him.

make story about a kid who didnt like school and how exiting it turned when he joind the shool

Answer 5

have him work in small groups first then when hes ready he can join in with everyone.

Answer 6

Remember, with young children, observation IS participation.  :-)  

I find that the more you try to "make" a child participate the less likely they will.  So let them watch from the sidelines but include them verbally.  Make sure you offer and/or set the movement material near them every time.   Once in awhile offer to move with that child.

Good luck!