How to Help Your Child Develop Strong Social Skills

I. Introduction

Welcome to the world of parenting! As a parent, you play a crucial role in shaping your child’s development, and one important aspect of their growth is social skills. Helping your child develop strong social skills is essential for their overall well-being and success in life.

Social skills are the abilities that enable individuals to interact and communicate effectively with others. These skills include everything from making friends and resolving conflicts to expressing emotions and showing empathy. By nurturing your child’s social skills, you are equipping them with the tools they need to navigate social situations confidently and build meaningful relationships.

In this article, we will explore various strategies and techniques to support your child in developing strong social skills. We will delve into the importance of social skills, the developmental milestones to look out for, and practical tips for fostering social competence.

Whether your child is an introvert or an extrovert, they can benefit from honing their social skills. By providing them with a solid foundation in social interactions, you are setting them up for success in school, relationships, and their future careers.

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can help your child develop strong social skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

II. Understanding Social Skills

In order to help your child develop strong social skills, it is important to have a clear understanding of what social skills are and the components involved in their development. Social skills refer to the abilities and behaviors that allow individuals to interact effectively and harmoniously with others in various social situations. These skills are crucial for building and maintaining relationships, communicating effectively, and navigating social environments.

A. Definition of social skills

Social skills encompass a wide range of abilities that enable individuals to engage in successful social interactions. These skills include verbal and nonverbal communication, empathy, active listening, cooperation, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and self-regulation. Verbal communication involves using words and language to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings, while nonverbal communication involves using body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice to convey messages. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, while active listening involves paying full attention to the speaker and responding appropriately. Cooperation entails working together with others towards a common goal, while conflict resolution involves finding peaceful solutions to disagreements. Problem-solving is the ability to identify and resolve problems effectively, and self-regulation refers to managing one’s emotions, impulses, and behaviors in social situations.

B. Components of social skills development

The development of social skills involves various components that contribute to the acquisition and mastery of these skills. These components include cognitive, emotional, and behavioral factors.

1. Cognitive factors: Cognitive factors play a crucial role in social skills development. These include the ability to understand and interpret social cues, perspective-taking, theory of mind, and social problem-solving skills. Understanding social cues involves recognizing and interpreting verbal and nonverbal signals from others, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. Perspective-taking is the ability to understand and consider the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of others. Theory of mind refers to the understanding that others have their own beliefs, desires, and intentions that may differ from one’s own. Social problem-solving skills involve the ability to identify social problems, generate alternative solutions, evaluate the consequences of each solution, and choose the most appropriate course of action.

2. Emotional factors: Emotional factors play a significant role in social skills development. These include emotional awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and self-confidence. Emotional awareness involves recognizing and understanding one’s own emotions and the emotions of others. Emotional regulation refers to the ability to manage and control one’s own emotions in social situations. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which is essential for building and maintaining relationships. Self-confidence is the belief in one’s own abilities and worth, which is necessary for effective social interactions.

3. Behavioral factors: Behavioral factors are crucial for the development of social skills. These include social modeling, practice, reinforcement, and feedback. Social modeling involves observing and imitating the social behaviors of others, such as parents, teachers, peers, and role models. Practice is essential for mastering social skills, as it allows individuals to apply and refine their skills in real-life situations. Reinforcement, such as praise, rewards, and positive feedback, encourages and strengthens desired social behaviors. Feedback provides individuals with information about their social skills performance, allowing them to make necessary adjustments and improvements.

By understanding the definition of social skills and the components involved in their development, you can effectively support your child in developing strong social skills. Encourage and provide opportunities for your child to practice these skills in various social settings, offer guidance and feedback, and be a positive role model for them to emulate. Remember that social skills are essential for your child’s overall well-being and success in life.

III. The Role of Parents in Social Skills Development

As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your child develop strong social skills. By creating a supportive and nurturing environment, modeling positive social behaviors, and encouraging communication and active listening, you can lay the foundation for your child’s social development.

A. Creating a supportive and nurturing environment

Creating a supportive and nurturing environment is essential for your child’s social skills development. This involves providing a safe and loving home where your child feels comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their emotions. Here are some ways you can create such an environment:

• Establish clear boundaries and expectations: Setting clear boundaries helps your child understand what is acceptable behavior and what is not. Consistency is key in enforcing these boundaries.
• Show empathy and understanding: When your child is experiencing strong emotions, such as frustration or sadness, try to empathize with them and validate their feelings. This helps them feel understood and supported.
• Encourage open communication: Create an atmosphere where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to share their experiences and listen attentively when they do.
• Provide opportunities for social interaction: Arrange playdates, join community groups, or enroll your child in extracurricular activities that allow them to interact with peers. This helps them develop important social skills, such as sharing, taking turns, and resolving conflicts.

B. Modeling positive social behaviors

Children learn by observing and imitating the behavior of those around them, especially their parents. By modeling positive social behaviors, you can teach your child valuable skills that they can apply in their own interactions. Here are some ways you can model positive social behaviors:

• Show respect and kindness: Treat others with respect and kindness, whether it’s your spouse, friends, or strangers. Your child will learn that these qualities are important in building positive relationships.
• Practice active listening: When your child is speaking to you, give them your full attention. Maintain eye contact, nod, and respond to show that you are actively listening. This teaches your child the importance of listening and being present in conversations.
• Resolve conflicts peacefully: When conflicts arise, demonstrate effective conflict resolution strategies. Use calm and respectful communication to find a solution that satisfies both parties. Your child will learn that conflicts can be resolved without resorting to aggression or hostility.
• Display empathy and understanding: Show empathy towards others by acknowledging their feelings and perspectives. Help your child understand that everyone has different experiences and emotions, and it’s important to be understanding and supportive.

C. Encouraging communication and active listening

Effective communication and active listening are essential skills for building strong social connections. By encouraging your child to communicate their thoughts and feelings and teaching them how to actively listen, you can help them develop these skills. Here are some strategies to encourage communication and active listening:

• Engage in meaningful conversations: Have regular conversations with your child about their day, their interests, and their concerns. Ask open-ended questions to encourage them to express themselves and actively listen to their responses.
• Teach active listening skills: Teach your child the importance of active listening by modeling it yourself. Encourage them to maintain eye contact, nod, and ask follow-up questions to show that they are engaged in the conversation.
• Validate their feelings: When your child shares their feelings with you, validate them by acknowledging their emotions. Let them know that it’s okay to feel the way they do and that you are there to support them.
• Teach problem-solving skills: Help your child develop problem-solving skills by encouraging them to think critically and come up with solutions to their own challenges. Guide them through the process and praise their efforts.

By creating a supportive and nurturing environment, modeling positive social behaviors, and encouraging communication and active listening, you can help your child develop strong social skills. Remember, social skills are essential for their overall well-being and success in life, so investing time and effort into their development is invaluable.

IV. Age-Appropriate Social Skills Milestones

A. Social skills milestones for infants and toddlers

During the first few years of life, infants and toddlers go through significant developmental milestones in their social skills. These milestones are crucial for their overall growth and development. Here are some age-appropriate social skills milestones for infants and toddlers:

• Imitating facial expressions and gestures
• Engaging in eye contact
• Responding to their name
• Showing interest in other children
• Playing alongside other children
• Sharing toys and taking turns
• Showing empathy and understanding others’ emotions
• Initiating simple conversations
• Following simple instructions

It is important for parents and caregivers to create a nurturing and supportive environment that encourages these social skills. By providing opportunities for social interaction and modeling positive behaviors, infants and toddlers can develop strong social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

B. Social skills milestones for preschoolers

Preschoolers continue to build on their social skills and develop more complex social interactions. Here are some age-appropriate social skills milestones for preschoolers:

• Engaging in cooperative play with other children
• Taking turns and sharing toys
• Using words to express their needs and emotions
• Showing empathy and understanding others’ perspectives
• Following rules and taking responsibility for their actions
• Resolving conflicts with peers
• Initiating and maintaining conversations
• Showing respect for others’ personal space and belongings
• Participating in group activities and following group instructions

Preschool is a critical time for social development, and parents and educators play a vital role in supporting and guiding children through these milestones. By providing opportunities for social interaction, teaching problem-solving skills, and promoting positive social behaviors, preschoolers can develop strong social skills that will serve them well in their future relationships and interactions.

C. Social skills milestones for school-age children

School-age children continue to refine their social skills and navigate more complex social situations. Here are some age-appropriate social skills milestones for school-age children:

• Forming and maintaining friendships
• Working collaboratively in group projects
• Respecting diversity and embracing differences
• Showing empathy and understanding others’ feelings
• Communicating effectively and expressing opinions
• Resolving conflicts in a peaceful and respectful manner
• Showing good sportsmanship and fair play
• Listening actively and respecting others’ perspectives
• Recognizing and responding to social cues

As school-age children spend more time interacting with peers and adults outside of their immediate family, it is important for parents, teachers, and caregivers to provide guidance and support in developing these social skills. By fostering a positive and inclusive environment, school-age children can continue to grow and thrive socially.

D. Social skills milestones for teenagers

Teenagers face unique social challenges as they navigate adolescence and prepare for adulthood. Here are some age-appropriate social skills milestones for teenagers:

• Developing and maintaining healthy relationships
• Respecting boundaries and consent
• Communicating assertively and resolving conflicts
• Showing empathy and understanding others’ perspectives
• Building effective teamwork and leadership skills
• Managing emotions and coping with stress
• Practicing responsible digital citizenship
• Advocating for themselves and others
• Planning and organizing social events

Teenagers are in a critical stage of identity formation and social development. Parents, teachers, and mentors can support teenagers by providing guidance, setting boundaries, and encouraging open communication. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, teenagers can develop strong social skills that will help them navigate the challenges of adulthood.

V. Strategies for Promoting Social Skills Development

In order to help your child develop strong social skills, it is important to engage in various strategies that encourage social interaction, empathy, and problem-solving. Here are some effective strategies that you can implement:

A. Engaging in pretend play and role-playing activities

Pretend play and role-playing activities provide children with the opportunity to explore different social scenarios and develop their social skills. Encourage your child to engage in imaginative play where they can take on different roles and interact with others. This can be done through playing with dolls, action figures, or even dressing up and acting out different scenarios. By engaging in pretend play, children learn how to communicate, negotiate, and cooperate with others.

B. Encouraging participation in group activities and team sports

Participating in group activities and team sports is a great way for children to develop their social skills. It teaches them how to work together, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts. Encourage your child to join a sports team, a club, or any other group activity that interests them. This will not only help them develop their social skills but also boost their self-confidence and promote a sense of belonging.

C. Teaching empathy and perspective-taking

Empathy is a crucial social skill that allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others. Teaching your child empathy can be done through various activities such as reading books that promote empathy, discussing emotions and feelings, and encouraging them to put themselves in someone else’s shoes. By teaching empathy and perspective-taking, you are helping your child develop a deeper understanding of others and fostering positive relationships.

D. Providing opportunities for social interactions

It is important to provide your child with ample opportunities for social interactions. This can be done through playdates, family gatherings, or community events. Encourage your child to engage in conversations, ask questions, and actively listen to others. By providing these opportunities, you are helping your child practice their social skills in real-life situations and learn how to navigate different social dynamics.

E. Teaching conflict resolution and problem-solving skills

Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills are essential for healthy social interactions. Teach your child effective strategies for resolving conflicts, such as active listening, compromise, and finding win-win solutions. Encourage them to express their feelings and opinions assertively and teach them how to negotiate and find solutions that are fair for everyone involved. By equipping your child with these skills, you are empowering them to navigate conflicts and build strong relationships.

VI. Building Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Building self-confidence and self-esteem in children is crucial for their overall development and success in life. As a parent or caregiver, there are several strategies you can employ to help your child develop a positive self-image and a strong sense of self-worth. In this section, we will explore three key approaches: recognizing and celebrating achievements, encouraging independence and decision-making, and fostering a positive self-image.

A. Recognizing and Celebrating Achievements

One of the most effective ways to boost your child’s self-confidence is to recognize and celebrate their achievements, no matter how big or small. When your child accomplishes something, whether it’s getting a good grade on a test, learning a new skill, or completing a task, take the time to acknowledge their efforts and praise their accomplishments.

Instead of focusing solely on the end result, emphasize the effort and hard work your child put into achieving their goal. This helps them understand that success is not just about the outcome, but also about the process and the effort they put in. By recognizing and celebrating their achievements, you are reinforcing their belief in their abilities and building their self-confidence.

It’s important to be specific in your praise and highlight the specific qualities or skills your child demonstrated. For example, instead of saying, “Good job,” you could say, “I’m really proud of how you studied hard and prepared for the test. Your dedication and perseverance paid off.” This kind of specific praise helps your child understand what they did well and encourages them to continue working hard and striving for success.

B. Encouraging Independence and Decision-Making

Another important aspect of building self-confidence and self-esteem is encouraging your child to be independent and make their own decisions. Allowing them to take on age-appropriate responsibilities and make choices helps them develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance.

Start by giving your child small tasks or chores that they can handle on their own. This could be something as simple as setting the table, making their bed, or packing their school bag. As they successfully complete these tasks, gradually increase the level of responsibility and complexity. This not only helps them develop practical skills but also boosts their confidence in their ability to take care of themselves and contribute to the family.

When it comes to decision-making, give your child opportunities to make choices and express their opinions. This could be as simple as letting them choose what to wear, what book to read, or what game to play. Encourage them to think critically, weigh the pros and cons, and make informed decisions. Even if their choices don’t always turn out perfectly, it’s important to support them and help them learn from their mistakes. This empowers them to trust their own judgment and builds their self-esteem.

C. Fostering a Positive Self-Image

Helping your child develop a positive self-image is essential for building their self-confidence and self-esteem. A positive self-image means having a realistic and healthy perception of oneself, recognizing one’s strengths and weaknesses, and accepting oneself unconditionally.

One way to foster a positive self-image is to encourage your child to focus on their strengths and celebrate their unique qualities. Help them identify their talents, interests, and passions, and provide opportunities for them to explore and develop these areas. By nurturing their strengths, you are helping them build a strong sense of self and confidence in their abilities.

It’s also important to teach your child self-compassion and self-acceptance. Encourage them to embrace their imperfections and understand that nobody is perfect. Teach them to be kind to themselves, to forgive themselves when they make mistakes, and to learn from those mistakes instead of dwelling on them. By cultivating self-compassion, your child will develop resilience and a positive attitude towards themselves, which in turn boosts their self-esteem.

VII. Addressing Social Challenges and Difficulties

As parents, it is important to be aware of the signs that your child may be facing social difficulties. These challenges can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty making friends, struggling to communicate effectively, or experiencing anxiety in social situations. By identifying these signs early on, you can take proactive steps to support your child’s social development.

One of the first signs to look out for is a lack of interest or engagement in social activities. If your child consistently avoids social gatherings or seems disinterested in interacting with others, it may indicate that they are facing social challenges. Additionally, pay attention to any changes in their behavior or mood, as sudden shifts in these areas can also be indicative of underlying social difficulties.

Seeking professional help and support is crucial when addressing social challenges in children. A qualified therapist or counselor can provide valuable guidance and strategies to help your child navigate social situations more effectively. They can also work with you as a parent to develop a personalized plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.

When seeking professional help, it is important to find a therapist or counselor who specializes in working with children and has experience in addressing social difficulties. They should have a deep understanding of child development and be able to provide evidence-based interventions that are tailored to your child’s unique circumstances.

In addition to professional support, there are also several strategies that you can implement at home to help your child develop strong social skills and cope with social challenges. Encourage open communication and create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and concerns. Validate their emotions and provide reassurance that it is normal to face social difficulties at times.

Engaging in activities that promote social interaction can also be beneficial. Encourage your child to participate in group activities, such as team sports, clubs, or community events. These experiences provide opportunities for your child to practice social skills and build relationships with their peers.

Teaching your child effective communication skills is another important aspect of addressing social challenges. Help them understand the importance of active listening, empathy, and clear expression of thoughts and feelings. Role-playing scenarios can be a fun and interactive way to practice these skills in a safe environment.

It is crucial to remember that addressing social challenges and difficulties is a process that takes time and patience. Every child is unique, and progress may vary. Celebrate small victories and provide ongoing support and encouragement to your child as they navigate their social journey.

VIII. Social Skills and Technology

In today’s digital age, it is crucial for parents to help their children develop strong social skills that can be applied both online and offline. Balancing screen time with face-to-face interactions and teaching digital etiquette and online safety are two key aspects of fostering healthy social development in children.

A. Balancing screen time with face-to-face interactions

With the increasing prevalence of technology in our lives, it is important to strike a balance between screen time and face-to-face interactions. While technology can offer numerous benefits, such as educational resources and connectivity, excessive screen time can hinder a child’s social development.

As a parent, it is essential to set limits on screen time and encourage your child to engage in activities that involve face-to-face interactions. Encourage them to participate in sports, join clubs or organizations, and spend time with friends and family. These activities provide opportunities for your child to develop important social skills, such as communication, teamwork, and empathy.

Additionally, make sure to model healthy screen habits yourself. Show your child the importance of balancing screen time by setting aside dedicated family time without any digital distractions. This will not only strengthen your bond as a family but also reinforce the value of face-to-face interactions.

B. Teaching digital etiquette and online safety

In today’s digital world, teaching children about digital etiquette and online safety is paramount. As a parent, it is your responsibility to educate your child about the potential risks and challenges they may encounter online and equip them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape safely.

Start by establishing clear rules and guidelines for your child’s online activities. Teach them about the importance of privacy, the potential consequences of sharing personal information online, and the significance of respectful and responsible online behavior. Encourage them to think critically and question the credibility of online information.

Furthermore, stay involved in your child’s online activities. Monitor their internet usage, set parental controls, and have open and honest conversations about their online experiences. Encourage them to come to you if they encounter any issues or concerns while using the internet.

It is also crucial to educate your child about the concept of digital footprints and the long-term implications of their online actions. Teach them about the permanence of online content and the potential impact it can have on their future personal and professional lives.

Finally, stay informed about the latest trends and technologies in the digital world. By staying up-to-date, you can better guide and support your child in navigating the ever-changing online landscape.

By balancing screen time with face-to-face interactions and teaching digital etiquette and online safety, parents can help their children develop strong social skills that are essential for success in both the virtual and physical worlds.

IX. Social Skills in School Settings

Social skills are essential for children to navigate the school environment successfully. Developing strong social skills can help children build positive relationships, communicate effectively, and handle various social situations. In this section, we will explore three important aspects of social skills in school settings: collaborating with teachers and school staff, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, and addressing bullying and peer pressure.

A. Collaborating with teachers and school staff

Collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff is crucial for supporting a child’s social development. When parents and educators work together, they can create a cohesive support system that promotes positive social interactions and enhances a child’s overall well-being.

One way to collaborate with teachers and school staff is to maintain open lines of communication. Regularly communicate with your child’s teacher to stay updated on their social progress and any challenges they may be facing. Share information about your child’s interests, strengths, and areas for improvement, as this can help teachers tailor their approach to support your child’s social development.

Additionally, attending parent-teacher conferences and school events provides opportunities to interact with teachers and school staff. These interactions allow you to gain insights into your child’s social experiences at school and discuss strategies to address any social difficulties they may be encountering.

Another way to collaborate with teachers and school staff is to actively participate in school activities. Volunteer for school events, join parent-teacher associations, or offer to assist with classroom activities. By actively engaging in the school community, you can build relationships with teachers and staff, fostering a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility for your child’s social growth.

B. Encouraging participation in extracurricular activities

Extracurricular activities provide valuable opportunities for children to develop social skills outside of the classroom. Encouraging your child to participate in these activities can help them build friendships, explore their interests, and develop important life skills.

When selecting extracurricular activities, consider your child’s interests and strengths. Choose activities that align with their passions, as this will increase their motivation and enjoyment. Whether it’s joining a sports team, participating in a drama club, or engaging in community service, finding activities that resonate with your child can enhance their social development.

Encourage your child to step out of their comfort zone and try new activities. This can help them develop resilience, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. Encourage them to make new friends and engage in positive social interactions during these activities.

Furthermore, emphasize the importance of commitment and perseverance. Encourage your child to stick with an activity even if they face challenges or setbacks. Through perseverance, they can develop valuable social skills such as resilience, problem-solving, and teamwork.

C. Addressing bullying and peer pressure

Bullying and peer pressure can significantly impact a child’s social well-being. It is essential for parents and educators to address these issues proactively and provide children with the necessary tools to navigate these challenges.

Start by educating your child about bullying and peer pressure. Teach them what constitutes bullying behavior and how to recognize signs of peer pressure. Encourage open communication, so your child feels comfortable discussing any concerns or experiences they may have.

Teach your child assertiveness skills to help them respond effectively to bullying and peer pressure. Role-play different scenarios and provide them with strategies to assert their boundaries, seek help from trusted adults, and make independent decisions.

Additionally, foster a supportive and inclusive environment at home by promoting empathy, kindness, and respect. Teach your child the importance of treating others with compassion and standing up against bullying. Encourage them to be a positive role model and to support their peers who may be experiencing bullying or peer pressure.

Collaborate with your child’s school to address bullying and peer pressure effectively. Stay informed about the school’s policies and procedures for handling these issues. If your child experiences bullying or peer pressure, report it to the appropriate school authorities and work together to develop a plan to address the situation.

By actively addressing bullying and peer pressure, parents and educators can create a safe and supportive school environment that fosters positive social interactions and promotes the well-being of all students.

Developing strong social skills and emotional intelligence is crucial for children as it helps them navigate various social situations, build meaningful relationships, and manage their emotions effectively. In this section, we will explore the importance of understanding emotions and emotional regulation, as well as how to teach emotional intelligence skills to children.

Understanding emotions and emotional regulation

Emotions play a significant role in our daily lives, influencing our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions with others. Teaching children to understand and regulate their emotions is essential for their overall well-being and social development.

One effective way to help children understand emotions is by labeling and discussing different feelings. Encourage them to identify and express their emotions, whether positive or negative, in a safe and supportive environment. By doing so, children can develop a vocabulary for their emotions and learn to communicate their feelings effectively.

Additionally, it is important to teach children that all emotions are valid and that it is okay to feel a wide range of emotions. Help them understand that emotions are natural responses to different situations and that it is important to acknowledge and accept their feelings.

Emotional regulation is the ability to manage and control our emotions in a healthy and appropriate manner. It is a skill that can be learned and practiced over time. Encourage children to identify strategies that help them regulate their emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, taking a break, or engaging in activities they enjoy.

Modeling emotional regulation is also crucial. As adults, we can demonstrate healthy ways of managing our own emotions, showing children that it is possible to navigate challenging situations without becoming overwhelmed or reactive.

Teaching emotional intelligence skills

Emotional intelligence encompasses a set of skills that enable individuals to recognize, understand, and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with others. By teaching children these skills, we can help them develop strong social skills and build positive relationships.

One important aspect of emotional intelligence is self-awareness. Encourage children to reflect on their own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. Help them identify their triggers and patterns of behavior, as this self-awareness will enable them to make more informed choices in their interactions with others.

Empathy is another crucial skill to cultivate in children. Help them understand and appreciate the perspectives and feelings of others. Encourage them to put themselves in someone else’s shoes and consider how their actions might impact others. Engage in discussions about empathy and kindness, highlighting the importance of treating others with respect and compassion.

Teaching children effective communication skills is also essential for developing their emotional intelligence. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings assertively and respectfully. Teach them active listening skills, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and summarizing what the other person has said. These skills will enable children to engage in meaningful conversations and build strong connections with others.

Lastly, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills are vital components of emotional intelligence. Teach children how to identify problems, brainstorm possible solutions, and evaluate the pros and cons of each option. Encourage them to find win-win solutions and negotiate compromises when conflicts arise. By equipping children with these skills, we empower them to navigate conflicts and challenges in a constructive and empathetic manner.