How to Explain Your Child's Introversion to Their Teachers

Some teachers still see quiet introverts as “broken extroverts” who need to be fixed.

When I was a child, I was well aware that I was different than other students — that I got nervous in group settings and went quiet, that I wanted to be with just one or two close friends, and that the best part of recess was running off to the edge of the schoolyard and playing on my own.

It was hard for other kids to understand this — did I not like them? — but it was even harder for my teachers to understand it. They would give me high marks in reading and math, and they could count on me to follow directions. But they always had comments for my parents: “He needs to learn to interact with others.”

I didn’t know it at the time, but I was an introvert. A perfectly normal introvert. Although introversion has come a long way since then in terms of public awareness, there are still many teachers who worry a quiet kid is somehow lacking.

This article aims to change that. As a parent now myself, here’s my guide to explaining your child’s introversion to their teachers.

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What Does It Mean to Be Introverted?

Before explaining your child’s introversion to their teacher, it’s essential to understand what introversion is — and what it isn’t. Introverts recharge their energy through solitude and introspection, and get worn out by too much social time.

There are several signs a child is an introvert, including:

They communicate best one-on-one
They’re quiet in large social settings (but may be loud with a close friend or at home)
They’re good at listening and focusing deeply
They may be reflective and enjoy reflective activities, like reading
They’re may be particular about the activities they choose to do

It’s important to note that introversion is not the same as shyness or social anxiety, and many introverts can be confident and sociable when they feel comfortable and energized. It’s also important to remember that there are other things that matter in life — especially at school — than being outgoing. While social skills are valuable, so are skills like listening, reading, focusing, thinking deeply and critically, and using one’s imagination. These are all skills that tend to be nurtured through quiet, not social, time.

In other words: Introverted students have an edge, and it’s important for teachers to see that. Here are some ways you can explain your child’s introversion to their teachers.

8 Ways to Explain Your Child’s Introversion to Their Teachers

1. Recognize the teacher’s expertise and commitment.

Start by acknowledging the teacher’s professional experience and dedication to their students. Express your gratitude for their work. You might mention specific instances where you’ve noticed their dedication or impact on your child’s learning experience.

For example, you might say something like:

“I really appreciate what you’ve done to help the kids get to know one another. Not every teacher does that.”
“I can tell you really pay attention to kids as individuals.”
“Thank you for everything you’re doing for (child’s name). I know you have a lot of expertise, and it shows.”

By doing so, you create a foundation of respect, setting the stage for a productive and empathetic discussion. This approach helps build trust and openness between you and the teacher, showing them that you are on their side.

2. Share your introverted child’s strengths and preferences.

When you’ve built a good relationship with your child’s teacher, share some specific examples of your introverted child’s behaviors and preferences. You might talk about your child’s inclination for working on their own or with a small group; requiring some time to process information before participating in class discussions; enjoying calm activities (such as drawing or reading); feeling overwhelmed or tired in noisy or chaotic surroundings; and preferring to have a few close friends rather than a large social circle.

After all, introverted children don’t need to be “fixed”; they just have different learning styles than extroverts.

For example, you might say something like:

“I know (child’s name) tends not to raise his hand much to give answers, even when he knows them.”
“I’m guessing (child’s name) mostly plays by herself at recess — have you noticed that?”
“You could probably tell that (child’s name) didn’t feel comfortable with the group project.”

By giving concrete examples, you help the teacher understand your child’s personality and learning style better.

3. Discuss the importance of introvert-friendly areas in the classroom.

If your child’s teacher seems open to it, you may discuss tweaks they can make to their teaching methods or classroom environment. Emphasize that it’s not about giving your child special treatment, but rather, ensuring that they can learn effectively and feel at ease in the classroom.

For example, the teacher might offer alternative methods of participation, such as written responses, hold small-group discussions instead of whole-class discussions, or provide quiet spaces or designated “cool down” areas within the classroom. How to do this depends on the age group and class structure.

For instance, kindergartens and preschools can have some solo desks for quietly working on drawings or crafts, set apart from social play areas. In classrooms for older students, arrange the space to allow focused solo work, as well as creative group discussion. At all ages, teachers should be mindful of group projects, to ensure that introverted students are paired with compatible peers.

Experts at James Stanfield, a leading education organization, emphasize that awareness is also key: Teachers must take time to understand what introversion means and look for positive qualities in both introverted and extroverted students. Depending on the grade level, teachers could do a lesson about introverts and extroverts, and help students explain that both qualities come with strengths.

4. Address misconceptions about introversion.

When discussing your introverted child with their teacher, it’s crucial to address common misconceptions about introversion. Some key points to clarify during the conversation might include explaining that introversion is not a flaw or something that needs to be fixed. For example:

“(Child’s name) is an introvert, and we’re proud of that. A lot of history’s greatest thinkers were introverts.”
“Are you familiar with the difference between introversion and extroversion? I think (child’s name) is just a healthy, normal introvert.”

Highlight that introverted children can be academically capable and engaged — even though they may be quiet in the classroom. Introverts may take more time to think before they give an answer, and may not raise their hand even if they know an answer — but this does not mean they’re any less intelligent or less engaged.

Is social anxiety holding your child back?

Although social anxiety is not the same thing as introversion, many introverted kids experience this painful and isolating condition. The truth is your child can learn the skills to overcome their social anxiety, and our partner Natasha Daniels can show them how. This means happier school days, less resistance to social activities, more friends, and lifelong confidence. Click here to check out her online class, How to Crush Social Anxiety. For ages 10+.

5. Encourage open communication.

Maintaining an ongoing dialogue with your child’s teacher is vital in ensuring your child’s needs are met. Encourage the teacher to reach out to you with any concerns or questions, and let them know you’re available to talk about any strategies that would support your child’s learning. You might even set up regular check-ins, which can create a sense of accountability — and foster a strong partnership between you and the teacher.

However, be aware of the fact that teachers tend to be overworked and have very little prep time outside of class. Ask the teacher if a monthly email check-in would work, and then put it on your calendar so you take the lead on it. Or, simply ask if the two of you can check in by phone every month or so.

6. Give teachers resources about introversion.

Offer the teacher resources to learn more about introversion and how to best support introverted students. However, you don’t want to tell them what to do, so try to make this conversation happen as naturally as possible.

This could include books, such as Susain Cain’s Quiet and Jenn Granneman’s The Secret Lives of Introverts, or articles, such as the parenting section here at Introvert, Dear.

By providing these resources, you empower the teacher to better support not only your child, but also other introverted students in their classroom.

7. Collaborate on strategies for productive parent-teacher meetings.

Your child’s naturally quiet nature may make them feel apprehensive during school meetings (like parent-teacher conferences) or events. Recognizing and addressing this can make a world of difference. Here are some strategies to help them feel confident and understood:

Let them prepare questions or thoughts in writing beforehand.
Allow them to have a friend or family member by their side for support.
Think about adjusting the meeting style, like using video calls or smaller gatherings.

By doing this, you’ll boost your child’s confidence during school events, ensuring they can share their feelings comfortably.

8. Show appreciation toward the teacher for being so supportive.

Explaining your child’s introversion to their teacher is a critical step in fostering a supportive and understanding academic environment. At the end of your conversation, express your gratitude to them for taking the time to listen. This will reinforce the collaborative nature of the relationship and demonstrates your genuine appreciation for their efforts.

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How to Explain Your Child’s Introversion to Their Teachers