Has your toddler ever walked into a room full of people and wouldn't let go of your arm? Has your toddler refused to interact with other children in a social situation or did not respond when asked a question? If so then your toddler is most likely exhibiting shyness.

So, what causes shyness? Many experts believe that shyness to some extent is inborn meaning that we have a genetic predisposition towards shyness. Another factor could be that the toddler has little to no social skills and doesnt know how to interact appropriately. You must also remember at this age that your toddler can often have bouts of separation anxiety and it may not be shyness.

Toddlers can overcome shyness. Some strategies that can help toddlers overcome shyness are as follows.

1.) Gradually expose your child to more social situations and encourage your child to interact in those situations. Go to the playground more often, join a playgroup, or invite neighbors over more often. Prompt your shy child to interact by asking questions and starting conversations between the children.

2.) Do not label your child as shy in front of them. If you say your child is shy in front of them it may influence their behavior. Be careful and avoid labeling.

3.)Do not criticize your child for being shy. Shyness is not something your child can control so easily. Instead talk about the shyness and tell your child about times when you were shy and how you overcame it. Show empathy when your child is being shy so they know you can understand how they feel.

The most important thing to remember is that you need to accept your child as they are and know that shyness is a trait. That is how your child is. However, with these strategies you can help influence and shape your child's behavior. Gradually incorpate these strategies into your child's daily life and eventually your child should begin to show more confidence. Good luck.