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Home › Articles › Development › Little Personalities

Little Personalities

Can Parents Influence Personality Traits?

By Kendeyl Johansen

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Until recently, it was believed that a child displaying shy behavior at age 4 would still act shy at 77, but recent research shows parents can help "turn on" desirable personality traits. With patient encouragement, 4-year-old Ryann Myers might say "hi" to her pint-sized peers at the pool and consequently, they might invite her in for a swim. Ryann probably won't notice her mother's eyes mist with happiness as she tests new waters.

Help Your Child Make Friends

Whether or not you envision your child voted "most friendly" in the high-school yearbook, you can help kids spark friendships. Follow the tips below to encourage your preschooler to make friends.

  • Schedule play dates. Give your child opportunities to practice friendly behavior by ensuring lots of playtime with other kids.
  • Give kids space. Unless worried about physical harm, let children learn by working out their own conflicts.
  • Don't micro-manage. Stay close by, so you're there if needed, but otherwise relax and let kids play by themselves.


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