How can I help DS to overcome shyness

[BabyHaribo]

DS is only just 2 but so shy and clingy.

I'm a sahm and he's rarely left with anyone else. We go to three different toddler groups a week but he won't leave my side. Holds my hand won't let me out of his sight and whimpers if he can't see me.

He is also really timid around other children and can easily get pushed out of the way or toys taken off him - he won't ever try to take it back.

I'm starting to feel like I've put him at a disadvantage by not sending him to childcare. I was terribly shy as a child (still am!) and really don't want DS to be

Any tips or ideas?

No no no you are doing it right! I strongly feel the closer the attachment you have the more independent he'll grow up as he'll feel safe and secure.
It worked for us and I too was terrified dd would be shy as I was so shy I developed elective mutism! Every child is different but I strongly remember being left with people I didn't know and did the opposite with DD who is now 7 and extremely outgoing. I even chose a nursery specifically because I could stay reading a book in the background until she knew staff and felt safe and she thrived and is so chatty

Don't call him shy.

Dont force him.

Let him see you interact with other people.

Do you have play dates?

Thanks for the replies. It's reassuring to see you both say don't force him. That's my instinct but I just worry for him!

Yes we do have playdates. He is usually clingy to start with but does warm up.

I think it's just on my mind as I've been looking after a friends little one a few mornings as she's just had dc2 and it made me think that DS would not be happy to go to a friends without me!