Hi my 4 year old DS can be quite anxious. He doesn't like change and he has very fixed interests. He doesn't like trying anything new but usually will do with a lot of coaxing and encouragement. He's a lovely, sweet soul. He's sensitive but he's also bright and chirpy and fun and funny.
He's not autistic, I realise it sounds like he could be from the above but he's def not (I worked with autistic people for years).
At times he can be very clingy and withdrawn or shy in social situations. Like he won't even speak to other family members at times and hides away when they talk to him. I've always let him cling knowing he's so young still and therefore needs me. But lately I'm worrying what if I'm helping him too much and not pushing him enough to be braver or letting him develop.
How can I support him to build resilience and self-worth whilst also ensuring he feels safe and trusts me to always be there?!! Has anyone had similar issues and what helped?
Thank you 😊