Hobbies And Interests
Coloring Contest
Coloring, a form of art, promotes creativity. Usually a solo activity, coloring provides an outlet for creative expression. Coloring does not directly involve speaking and interaction which your introvert fears or at least dislikes. Winning or entering a contest can build your child's confidence. Enter small children in coloring contests as the practice may seem juvenile to older children, introduce painting and drawing contests to older kids.
Essay Contest
Whether your introverted child wishes to express feelings verbally or not, he does have valid feelings and viewpoints. Writing creates an outlet to navigate emotions and ideas without the pressure of performing or speaking in front of others. Encourage your child to join an essay contest to promote freedom of expression and in support of her ideas. Writing can eventually become profitable and supply a rewarding career.
Solo Sports
Team sports such as basketball, hockey and baseball may seem daunting to introverts. Solo sports allow for children an opportunity for success as well as physical activity. Enlist your child in dance, figure skating, cross country and track programs to encourage participation and physical health. Your child can meet people with similar interests at meets and trials. Finding common ground may foster an introverted child to connect with other children. Do not push relationships, but remain hopeful your child may meet friends.
Read-a-Thon
Reading remains a common pastime of introverted children. Avoid punishing your child for reading too much or pressuring him to "put the books down and play". Reading stimulates creativity and enhances passion and vocabulary. Encourage your introverted child to read and engage her in conversation about the stories she reads. Ask about the characters and plot. Let your child know you support his hobby to build rapport and comfort in speaking. Invite your child to participate in read-a-thon's in which the more you read the more successful you become.