Teach Your Child to INTRODUCE THEMSELF age: 3+

Many kids are shy when it comes to saying hello to someone they don't know, but you can make them more comfortable by practicing at home.

Try a few "dress rehearsals." Role-play various greetings by showing your kid how to make eye contact with you and then asking them to give you a clear intro, such as, "Hello, my name is …" no need to instruct them how to shake hands --- a wave or a smile is a great post-pandemic substitute.

Get goofy. Line up stuffed animals or toys and practice introducing yourselves to them while playing. "Can you say, 'Hi, I'm Jessica!' in a silly voice? Can you do it like SpongeBob or Peppa Pig?" The more fun you can make it, the more at ease your kid will be when it comes to real life.

Add a tiny step to classic games. Repeating people's names can help your kid remember them. Before starting a match of "Rock, paper, scissors," or any game, have your kid use your name to ask you to join in. ("Ashley, would you like to play?" "Yes, Gabriel, count mem in!") Urge your child to try this when they're at school, too, to keep track of new friends.