I'm worried about my daughter because she is extremely shy and
has a difficult time making friends. Is there anything I can do
to help her? - Kathie Being shy isn't a bad thing in itself —
but if shyness is keeping your daughter from fully enjoying and
appreciating the joys that go along with being young, there are
some things she can do. One of the best ways kids can let go of
some shyness is to think of a few simple behaviors they would
like to improve, then practice them. Let's say your daughter
wants to work on talking to a friend. She can practice thinking
of how she'd do it if she weren't so shy. Just working on
smiling and saying "hello" is a good start. Complimenting a
schoolmate on a job well done in class, a play, or a sports
competition is another icebreaker. Some kids find it helps to
practice in front of a mirror, like they might practice lines
for a play. This might help your daughter feel more comfortable
with a new approach. Then she can practice smiling and saying
"hello" in real life. It oft