Is your son/daughter a shy child? How to help a shy child?

My first child was really shy. He would not eat if it means he needs to order his food at MCDonald. He is now 13 years old and still the problem is there but not as bad. I just let him be, and overtime he realize he needs to speak up. But his grades do suffer sometimes, because he is afraid to ask his teachers questions. But since he will need to get used to speaking for himself, I have to let him know the consequence of being too shy. I suggest you take your child to places where there are more children his age to play with. That was a mistake I made, I rarely took him out because being around other children made him nervous. But with my second one, I take her everywhere and she is much better with her shyness. Their dad is very shy and I think that is where they get it from. I hope this helps .good luck