Music Can Encourage Shy Children

Some children in my classes are quite shy. Some are hesitant at first and then break out of their shells, some remain shy throughout the course of the classes. It is just fine to be quiet and shy, and even if your child is shy, he can still make music! In fact, making music in groups can aid shy children by providing less pressure to be "on" or in the spotlight. They can make music in a community setting where everyone is encouraged to participate to their own level of comfort. Songs that are well known put people on the same playing field. Songs can also address emotions that can be difficult to express for shy children.

As a teacher, I like to encourage children to participate, but never force them. They can learn a lot by watching, and because our chairs are in a circle, they can still feel like part of the group. Even if your child sits outside the circle watching and listening, there is a chance that the next class they will sit in the circle, and by the last class be more comfortable than you ever thought she would! Since our class is a parent/child class, it helps shy children to feel safe when their parents are there as a comforting presence. Parents can lead by modeling how to participate with confidence.  The less you force them to say, dance in the middle of the circle, the more they may think of dancing on the edge on their own. Exposing your shy child to new experiences like a music class can put them just out of his or her comfort zone enough to grow and develop healthy social/emotional skills.  

If you have a shy child and wonder whether to sign up for a class, know that Wiggle Clap and Sing is a joyful, thoughtful and loving place to play music!

Here is a helpful article about parenting shy children: http://www.shakeyourshyness.com/parentingshychildren.htm