school drop off and pick up

[anywhereanytime]

I hate the school drop off and pick up. I'm really shy and no one talks to me or acknowledges me. Others strike up conversations really easily yet any conversation I have is really pained and ends abruptly. I don't know how to start conversations but even when I do I can't seem to keep them going. Why does everyone else make friends so easily but it's seemingly impossible for me. Aibu to think it's just me?

It isn't just you. Worth continuing to at least smile at people and say hi, even if you don't initiate conversations.

Definitely not just you. I've tried to make an effort today on DD's first day back, and had a chat with another mum. (But she made the first move when I was stood on my own) I'm just very socially awkward

I'm the same. socially awkward. probably have avoidant personality disorder. I talk to a couple of mum's but after to a few pleasantriws it's silence.
Just keep trying and definetly make eye contact and smile.

You aren’t the only one. Socially hopeless here too I stick to a smile and “morning” as I speed walk back to the car and skuttle off to work.

The only trouble is I heard someone describing me as “aloof”.

So I’m either awkward or aloof!

I have found that going to pta meetings have helped as they have a focus and a purpose (depending on how much wine has been consumed). Then at least there are a few people and you can have a conversation with a purpose. I know they have a reputation for being very cliquey but it depends on the school I guess.

The problem with School is it’s forced socialisation so not necessarily going to be people you actually want to be around!

I would just go for get there as last minute as possible!

I don't talk to anyone through choice. Less drama that way. There's nothing to say that the other parents don't already know each other from being local to the school and living nearby one another.

I live in a very small town so really stand out as the person who doesn't know anyone. They all seem to know eachother and socialise with eachother which makes it all worse.