Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

12-18-2021

Build Social Skills at Home for Success in School

One of the best indicators of future school success is a child's ability to interact with others. Students with positive social skills tend to do better in school than students who are aggressive, disliked by classmates or unable to form close relationships.

Class discussions, group projects and group activities all require students to work with one another. Strong social skills will make it easier for your child to succeed.

To reinforce social skills at home:

Talk about what it takes to be a good friend—for example, being honest, nice and a good listener. Can your child think of times when he’s shown these traits? Role-play to help him practice being friendly.
Teach your child to be a good sport. Encourage him to be gracious whether he wins or loses. Compliment him for trying hard, even when he doesn’t succeed.
Expect your child to be kind and polite. Being nice is the right thing to do. Help him think about others’ feelings: “Andy’s mom is sick. How do you think we could help?”
Practice cooperation. Do projects together, such as planning a family dinner. Look for opportunities to compromise, too. (“You can sleep 10 minutes later before school if you choose your outfits at night.”)
Support your child’s friendships. As pandemic conditions allow, let him participate in activities and invite friends to do things with your family. Also encourage him to meet new people.
Be a role model. When parents are friendly to each other, kids probably will be, too.

Brought to you by:

Webster County Schools

[School Success Ideas for Families]