23/10/2025
After some practical ways to encourage your child’s social development? These are our go-to strategies as paediatric occupa
After some practical ways to encourage your child’s social development? These are our go-to strategies as Paediatric Occupational Therapists:
🧸 Role Play with Toys and Parents:
Use your child’s favourite toys or join in yourself to act out common social situations. Practise greetings, sharing, taking turns, or asking someone to play. This helps your child learn what to say and do in a safe, playful way.
💭 Focus on One Skill at a Time:
Start simple! For example, practise just saying “hello” or “hi” to others. Once your child is comfortable, move on to asking “How are you?” or inviting someone to play. Breaking it down makes learning social skills less overwhelming and more achievable.
🌈 Arrange Playdates or Group Activities:
Give your child opportunities to meet and interact with other children. This could be at home, in a playgroup, or at the park. Remember, it’s okay if they don’t have a specific friend to meet—sometimes just being around other children is a great way to practise social skills.
🌳 Visit the Park Without a Specific Friend:
Going to the park without arranging to meet a particular friend encourages your child to approach new peers, join in games, and practise starting conversations. It’s a great way to build confidence in social settings.
🧩 Model Positive Social Behaviours:
Show your child how to greet others, ask questions, and listen. Children learn a lot by watching the adults around them!
🌟 Celebrate Every Success:
Whether your child says hello to someone new or tries to join a game, praise their effort. Every small step counts!
Remember: Social skills develop over time. With patience, encouragement, and lots of practice, your child will grow in confidence and make new friends! 🌱🤗
