Kids Who Prefer Solitude May Be Perfectly Normal

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DcWtB_Euen9/A child who chooses to sit alone at recess isn't necessarily lonely or unhappy.  A new University of Georgia study suggests that some children genuinely prefer solitude and can be perfectly content, provided that they still feel that they belong.Researchers studied 473 fourth- and fifth-graders from Georgia elementary schools. Children who are comfortable being alone but are comfortable with their classmates generally report satisfying relationships with both individual friends and the larger classroom group.The distinction is important. Children who don’t place much value on belonging are more likely to turn down social invitations, become increasingly isolated, and ultimately feel dissatisfied with their peer relationships. What starts as preferring solitude can develop into a downward spiral of social exclusion.The investigators advise parents and teachers not to force a solitary child into a large group activity. A better approach respects the child's desire for time alone while encouraging group participation beginning with several children who share similar interests. The goal: offer the  child who prefers solitude meaningful opportunities to connect.References On My Website.#ChildDevelopment #KidsHealth #Parenting #SocialSkills #MentalHealth