Kids with the best people skills use these 6 phrases: Therapist
No one is born with perfect people skills. Children learn human skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, boundary setting, and empathy by watching adults they trust and practicing in real-life scenarios in safe environments.
As a certified child life specialist and licensed therapist who has supported thousands of children and families, I have seen these skills help children build self-confidence, navigate relationships, and cope with stress and challenges. Over time, children who develop strong human skills also tend to become more flexible, adaptable, and self-reflective.
Here are six phrases that children with the best human relations might say and what you can do to develop them from an early age.
1. ‘I’m sorry’
Children with strong people skills have seen the adults around them name and process emotions. This helps them identify their own emotions and feel comfortable expressing them.
They cope more easily with a wide range of emotions, including not only happiness but also sadness, fear and anxiety. As children grow older, they can identify and process more complex emotions such as shame, jealousy, and loneliness.
2. ‘My brother is sad, he needs some time alone’
In homes where emotions are discussed openly, children are more likely to become aware of the feelings and needs of others. They can often take another person’s perspective and empathize with them.
This means recognizing someone else’s tears or distress and having ideas for how to support them as a friend, classmate, sibling, or peer.
It also extends to solving problems and setting boundaries. They understand that they or another person may need some time or space to themselves, and they are willing to give it to them, even if it is difficult.
3. ‘Who will be there?’
Parents who prepare their children for new experiences and talk about expectations often report that their children are more well-adjusted and socially secure.
They may be more comfortable trying new things and know what questions to ask before a new experience. This helps them anticipate challenges, overcome uncertainties, and make a plan to navigate the unknown.
Children who are more socially confident are not fearless. They learned how to gather information and prepare themselves in advance so that they could adjust and adapt when necessary.
4. ‘I made a mistake’
When mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, children become more capable of apologizing, correcting, and trying again. Their parents and caregivers have likely supported them through their mistakes and shown them that this is a natural part of growing, learning, and developing.
They are willing to work together to fix and solve problems rather than experiencing fear. They can also tolerate imperfections better and approach difficult moments or change with more flexibility.
5. ‘I have an idea’
Children who are more likely to talk have grown up in homes where differences are celebrated and working together is essential. Their parents likely provided them with opportunities to share input and use their natural strengths and abilities.
This means they have more confidence in thinking collaboratively and taking initiative; This makes teamwork and shared gaming experiences more flexible, creative and fun.
6. ‘I don’t like it when…’
Strong people skills are not the same as being a people pleaser. Instead, these children can set clear boundaries about how they want to be treated. And right now they feel comfortable expressing their boundaries effectively, respectfully, and assertively.
They prioritize safety, self-defense, and emotional awareness in their relationships. In addition to sharing their needs, they also work to listen, hear and respect others, even if there are differences.
Kelsey Mora She is a Certified Child Life Specialist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who provides specialized support, guidance, and resources to parents, families, and communities impacted by medical conditions, trauma, grief, and daily life stress. She is a private practice owner, mother of two, creator and writer. Method Workbooksand the nonprofit organization’s Chief Clinical Officer Pickle Group.
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