Is it normal for my child to be shy?

Yes. Wariness of new people is a normal part of child development, and some children need more time to adapt than others.

How do I help a shy child make friends?

Practice at home or with your friends' children first, follow your child's lead in new places, and praise their efforts.

Should I call my child shy?

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia suggests being careful with labels like "shy" and saying your child is slow to warm instead.

Is there a book for a shy child?

Tella makes a story instead of a printed book. It stars your child in the new place ahead of them, and it's ready the same day on your phone, tablet or TV.

All big feelings

How to help a shy child

Prepare them for new places, follow their lead, and praise every step out of their comfort zone.

Custom story for Lucia

Lucia doesn't know anyone at the birthday party, so she watches first and joins in with her bubbles when she's ready.

Slow Bubbles at the Garden Party

Story created for Lucia

Wariness of new people is a normal part of growing up, and some children simply need more time to warm up, says pediatrician Katie Lockwood of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. She suggests preparation, practice, positive feedback, validation and distraction; practicing at home or with friends' kids; following your child's lead in new places; and praising their efforts when they step out of their comfort zone. She also suggests being careful about calling a child "shy" and describing them as slow to warm instead.

A social story is one way to prepare: your child sees themselves arrive somewhere new, take a moment, and join in when they're ready. That's why Tella is built so the story stars your child, in the real place they're nervous about.

A shy social story starring your child

Here's how Lucia's story goes.

Mom names it softly: Lucia feels shy, and that's okay.
Lucia watches from behind Mom until she's ready.
When she's ready, Lucia blows bubbles and the game comes to her.
Mom hugs her, so proud that she tried.

Watch Lucia’s whole story

Questions parents ask

Is it normal for my child to be shy?: Yes. Wariness of new people is a normal part of child development, and some children need more time to adapt than others.
How do I help a shy child make friends?: Practice at home or with your friends' children first, follow your child's lead in new places, and praise their efforts.
Should I call my child shy?: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia suggests being careful with labels like "shy" and saying your child is slow to warm instead.
Is there a book for a shy child?: Tella makes a story instead of a printed book. It stars your child in the new place ahead of them, and it's ready the same day on your phone, tablet or TV.

Questions parents ask about Tella

Is it more screen time?: You watch it together, and it's about a real day in your child's life. No feed, and every story has an ending.
Is it safe?: No photo needed. See what we keep and who sees it.
Is it really about my child?: Every scene shows your child and your family, not a name dropped into a template.
What does it cost?: Your first story is free. No card needed.
Why not just ask ChatGPT?: See how a Tella story compares.

Updated October 30, 2026.

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