Any child can have one or two bad days. If assessments are to be reasonably reliable, behavior patterns should be analyzed over a monthlong period. The quality and not the quantity of a child's friendships is the important index to note. Some children are shyer than others, and it may not be effective to push such children into uncomfortable social relations. Unless the shyness prevents a child from enjoying social activities such as birthday parties, picnics, and family outings, it is assumed that the shyness will be spontaneously outgrown.
Social growth is considered adequate if a child regularly shows many of the listed attributes.
Occasional fluctuations should not lead to over-interpretations of temporary difficulties. On the basis of frequent contact with the child, observation in a variety of situations, and information from parents and other adults, a teacher can assess each child. If a child appears to be doing well, then it is reasonable to assume that occasional social difficulties will be outgrown. However, if a child seems to be doing poorly in many areas, adults can implement strategies that will help the child to overcome and outgrow social difficulties. It can help teachers observe, understand, and support children as they grow in social skillfulness and to form a basis for helping a child to establish more satisfying relations with other children.