We’ve been told at our first parents evening that DS has settled in well but spends a lot of the time playing on his own. He talks to the teacher and answers questions in class but doesn’t really seem to have any friends. The teacher said she wasn’t concerned at this stage and was going to do some activities to build his confidence with other children. However, it would be nice to help support him with this if I can, I just don’t know how!
He’s quiet, shy and small for his age but he’s so kind and has the most amazing imagination. When I’ve seen him with others outside of school, for example on play dates, he often doesn’t want to join in if the other children aren’t playing something he’s interested in. I’ve seen glimmers of him wanting to play with others but he doesn’t seem to be able to take the steps to initiate any games or play with them. I’ve often gone with him to join in together but he just ends up playing with me. A couple of weeks ago he tried to start a dinosaur game (I think) by roaring loudly at another boy but the boy just turned to someone else and said ‘he’s ridiculous isn’t he’ which was heartbreaking to see. Should I be saying to him that roaring loudly isn’t maybe the best way to start a game?? Is this going to knock his confidence even more?
He’s got a younger brother and they play together (although it’s slightly different as little brother is happy to do whatever DS wants) but he does imaginary play etc with him and with us.
Is this normal for some reception aged children? I’m worried he’s not going to make any friends and be isolated and sad at school. I’m going to try and organise a few more play dates. Any other ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks