Associating with age-mates is an essential part of childhood. When your child struggles to connect with others, it could be an indication of learning and attention issues.

One of the main problems that make it hard for your child to socialize with others is a condition known as Nonverbal Learning Disabilities (NVLD).

Signs of Social Skills Issues

Kids may show signs of social skills issues at different stages. With NVLD, they begin exhibiting the signs in grade or middle school. You’ll notice that your child responds inappropriately to conversations, and has a hard time picking up on nonverbal cues.

Causes of Social Skills Issues

  • Social Communication Disorder (SCD): Children with this condition avoid talking to people. They have issues with spoken language, making it hard to form connections.
  • Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): The symptoms associated with ADHD make it hard for a kid to form connections with others. They may be overactive and have trouble focusing on something or controlling their impulses. Signs such as trouble taking turns, wanting things immediately, and giving up easily on tasks makes socialization difficult for them.
  • NVLD: This is a brain condition that makes it hard for children to understand nonverbal communication cues such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. NVLD also affects math skills, coordination, and balance.

In some cases, a child can experience more than one of these conditions. The key to helping your child with their social skills may lie in knowing the condition they have.

Here’s What You Can Do

If your child has trouble socializing, it does not have to be that way always. You can help them build their social skills and confidence by:

  • Familiarizing yourself with their challenges. This way, you’ll know how to approach the situation.
  • Look out for behavior patterns. This will come in handy when you’re talking to a specialist.
  • Act out social situations with your kid to prepare them to deal better when they’re with their age mates.

 

source: https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/social-skills-issues/understanding-childs-trouble-with-social-skills