Which scenario best illustrates shyness in a preschooler?

• A. The child readily initiates play with peers.
• B. The child clings to parent in unfamiliar situations.
• C. The child participates in group activities without hesitation.
• D. The child seeks attention with loud outbursts.

Answer: (B)

Shyness in preschoolers is a temperament where unfamiliar people or settings feel threatening, so the child seeks safety by staying close to a trusted caregiver. When a child clings to a parent in unfamiliar situations, it shows hesitation to separate and a tendency to rely on someone familiar before engaging with others. This contrasts with a child who easily starts play or participates in group activities, which reflects comfort and confidence in social interactions. The loud attention-getting behavior suggests a different pattern—seeking emphasis or expressing needs loudly rather than a withdrawn, avoidant response. In short, clinging in new situations is a classic sign of shyness, reflecting the child’s instinct to seek reassurance from a caregiver before venturing into social play.