Making friends is an important part of a child's social and emotional development. Friendships help kids build self-esteem and confidence, may provide a protective barrier against bullying, and teach important life skills such as cooperation.
It's never too early to help your child develop friendship-making skills. Not every child is gifted at making friends, and that is fine. Making and keeping friends is a skill that can be learned.
You can help your child make friends with a little coaching. Talk about taking turns and sharing. Try using role-playing to practice different ways to handle disagreements. You can also demonstrate good behavior when you talk to family and your own friends. Give your child a few ideas for conversation starters: "What do you do for fun?" or "Do you have any pets?"
Part of being a good friend is showing interest in another person. Showing compassion and concern for other people is a great way to form friendships. Talk to your child about how he can connect with children his own age.
Getting involved in activities with other children is a great way to find friends. Begin by helping children identify what they find interesting or fun, and this reduces the pressure of meeting others. Encourage your child, also, to form friendships with people who are different because there's so much to learn from others.
Be realistic about your expectations for your child's friendships. Some children are happy with one or two close friends rather than a large group. Be patient and let your child's interest level be a guide.
The teachers at Endless Discoveries Child Development Center in Saginaw and Glen Rose, Texas, are skilled at helping children form lasting friendships.
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