Although I don’t like sterotypes, or labels, it is true that we are all born with certain tendencies. Some of us are introverts and some are extroverts. And, all labels aside, it is powerful to know where our kids fall. Today I am sharing some helpful parenting tips. There are different ways to parent an introvert versus ways to parent an extrovert child.
Knowing more about our kids can help in lots of ways, but specifically in the following two ways.
First, to better understand our children’s behavior, which in turns help us be better parents.
And second, so that we don’t worry so much.
What do I mean by that? Well, have you ever taken your child into a social setting and they don’t really want to respond or engage? It worries us that they don’t interact and play, right? But if we understand that our child might be more of an introvert, we better understand them and don’t worry as much.
So, how can we tell if our child is an introvert or extrovert?
Ask yourself this simple question. “How does my child draw energy”?
And extrovert draws energy from the social interactions and people around them. An introvert draws energy from their inner world of thoughts, emotions and ideas.
Extroverts are characterized by interacting with others and the world around them. They learn best when talking or interacting and can tend to get in more trouble by doing little things like poking their neighbor or whispering in class.
Introverts are drained by too much interaction, especially with a big group, and prefer to be with people they know well. They learn by watching others and reflecting, and tend to sit quiet in class, dont interrupt and can often be overlooked. Introverts are very contemplantive and like to work alone.
Think about how your child responds to different situations, and how they draw energy.
It is very normal for our children to be a little of both. In fact, that is great! And for those children that are very one sided, it is good to think about ways we can help them feel more comfortable in all different situations.
Once we understand our children better, don’t label them. Instead, use the information to better understand them. And don’t try to change them, but instead broaden them and strengthen them so they are comfortable and can handle all situations.
Below is a list of activities that are good for extroverts and introverts. Spend some time with your child and get to know their “style” a little better. And then start to introduce your child to activities from the opposite list. Don’t push, just offer.
And for an added challenge. Take a few minutes to answer the energy question about yourself. It is powerful to know which camp we tend to fall under too. If affects the way we interact with our children.
Activities for an extroverted child
Dressing up in costumes and putting on plays
Playing with a microphone and pretending there is an audience
Arts and crafts
Building things
Joining clubs
Team sports
Putting on plays
Pupper Shows
Comedy Shows
Going to museums and libraries
Performing arts
Picnics
Day camps and summer camps
Expressing themselves
Jumping on trampolines or playing at the playground
Physical activities
Activities for an introverted child
Creative writing
Writing poems
Keeping a journal
Painting
Drawing
Playing alone (imaginary play)
Reading
Puzzles
Computers
Libraries
Building things
Spending hours alone in their rooms
Spending time with just one good friend
Studying one single subject thouroughly
Is your child an introvert or an extrovert? What about you, are you an introvert or extrovert?
Have a question, or just want to say hello? You can find me at FamilyVolley.com. On Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Or send me an email. I love making new friends.
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Sarah @ Bombshell Bling says
My son is a major introvert, but he loves more of the things on your extrovert list – running, jumping, puppets, dress up, imaginary worlds and acting them out, building things all day long, etc . . . . just alone or with one friend or family member! :)