health
I’ve worked with over 1,000 kids—the ones with the best people skills use these 6 phrases
"Strong people skills are not the same as people-pleasing," says child life specialist and therapist Kelsey Mora, who's supported thousands of kids and families.
TL;DR
- Children learn people skills by observing trusted adults and practicing in real-life scenarios.
- Strong people skills contribute to confidence, better relationships, and stress management.
- Key phrases indicating strong people skills include expressing emotions ('I'm upset'), recognizing others' needs ('My brother is upset, he needs some space'), preparing for the unknown ('Who's going to be there?'), admitting mistakes ('I made a mistake'), contributing ideas ('I have an idea'), and setting boundaries ('I don't like when…').
- Fostering these skills involves open discussions about emotions, encouraging empathy, preparing children for new experiences, treating mistakes as learning opportunities, celebrating differences, and teaching boundary setting.
- Strong people skills are distinct from people-pleasing; they involve assertive and respectful communication of needs and boundaries.