Hot Topics     Home and Family     Healthy Kids    

5 ways to build social skills in isolation



Even when they’re stuck at home, kids’ social skills can be improved

5 ways to build social skills in isolation


School has always been more than academics. In addition to learning math, science, and literature, it’s also where we pick up social skills, through contact.

With the recent spikes of Covid-19 infections in the Hudson Valley, remote learning, with no physical interaction at all, will remain the standard for most schools, probably well into 2021. Although that can change based on updated information.

One of many parental concerns is the faltering of kids’ social skills due to lack of use. Fortunately, Ashley Abramson at Fatherly.com has some tips to help parents keep their youngsters from losing the ability to make and keep friendships, develop a sense of self worth, hone their empathy, and build confidence.

READ MORE: Helping preschoolers’ development during Covid-19

We’re turning our attention to the problem of social skills not only because it’s reared its ugly head, but also because we can. In the early days of the pandemic, most folks’ main worry was health. How do we keep ourselves, and our families from getting Covid-19? The question, “How will we educate our kids?” wasn’t top priority for most. And “How will our kids keep getting the appropriate socialization skills while in isolation?” was even further down the ladder. Now, however, as the winter bears down and we know a bit more about how to stay safe physically, attention must be, and can be, paid elsewhere.

Abramson is refreshingly optimistic. She writes: “While it’s true your kids might be missing out on some important opportunities to grow socially, don’t worry too much — you as a parent play an important role in teaching your child how to relate to other people. And it is certainly possible to continue building social skills outside of the school environment.” 

Her 5 tips, in a nutshell:

  1. Virtual play dates

  2. Read aloud even more

  3. Encourage pretend play

  4. Play board games

  5. Talk, mainly about things they like

Regarding virtual play dates, Abramson writes, “If your kid is old enough to carry a conversation, encourage a regular, one-on-one FaceTime call or Zoom meetup with their closest friends. In either scenario, try to keep the hangout to a few kids to prevent chaos and distraction.”

Reading aloud helps no matter what the context, but may help more now. Says Abramson, “Social skills are as much about speech and communication as they are emotional intelligence.”

For pretend play, bring on the puppets if you’ve not yet done so. With board games, Abramson notes, the aspect of conversation during play really helps develop communication skills. And finally, talking. That everyday reflex is crucial. Abramson’s article notes: “Work on the tenets of solid communication skills — eye contact, listening and responding, and being authentic in sharing thoughts, ideas, observations, and feelings.” 



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Save a life from stroke

    Tips from the American Stroke Association

    Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age – even young people. Despite being one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, strokes are largely preventable, treatable and beatable – if you can control your risk factors. read more »
  • Take steps now to protect your vision

    Regular eye exams are the best thing you can do

    Your quality of life and overall well-being depend on developing healthy habits. These practices are essential to your eye health. read more »
  • How women experience heart disease differently

    Symptoms are not always obvious

    Most people think of heart attacks as debilitating pain in the chest. However, that’s not always the case, especially for women, and missing the signs can be a matter of life and death. read more »
  • Serve a simple pasta salad this summer

    A quick and easy dish your family will love

    Some summertime dishes are just too good to be true. This Easy Pasta Salad is simple enough to become a favorite side and filling enough to serve as a light main course. read more »
  • Combatting Cracked Concrete

    Causes of failing concrete and how to solve them

    Concrete is a strong, durable and easy-to-maintain material that is popular for driveways, walkways, patios and more. Like most materials, though, it can inevitably wear down over time. read more »
  • A Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Own Oil

    It's easier than you think

    Changing your vehicle’s oil is a crucial maintenance task that can extend its life and improve performance. It’s also a task many DIYers can handle on their own with just a few tools. read more »
  • Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit

    Time to make a warm and inviting outdoor retreat

    A firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. read more »
  • Phones Down, Eyes Up™

    Campaign to reduce distractions and increase water safety

    May’s National Water Safety Month, the campaign aims to reduce distractions and improve water safety awareness, specifically targeting families as they head to pools and waterfronts this summer. read more »
  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • Use caution when purchasing vitamins and dietary supplements

    Tips from New York State Division of Consumer Protection

    The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is warning consumers to take precautions when selecting vitamins and dietary supplements. read more »