Improving Children’s Social Skills:
Some Basic Strategies
By H S Tan
In our groups, there are bound to be some students with weaker social skills. Teachers can play a significant role in equipping them with these vital skills. According to research, it is easier to improve social skills of children below ten years old. (Malik & Furman, 1993)
| Help children listen | Teach children how to listen to their peers instead of trying to dominate the conversation. Coach them on being mindful and careful in listening to other people talking, to show empathy, and to exhibit reassuring body language. |
| Help them gain peer attention | Help attract the attention of their peers to children with weak social skills. Ask for their opinions in class discussions, listen in a warm, encouraging way, and praise them for expressing their thoughts. |
| Involve them more in group activities | Help initiate group activities involving children with weak social skills. Mix them with other supportive children and encourage healthy interactions. |
| Improve social awareness | Help improve their awareness and understanding of themselves. Talk to them about the consequences of feeling angry all the time, showing disrespect, making fun of others, being jealous, dishonesty, gossiping and spreading rumours. These anti-social behaviours may be acquired unknowingly but can be overcome with adequate counselling, guidance and love. |