Helping Children and Teens Make Friends

Building healthy friendships is a vital aspect of a child’s social and emotional development. As a parent, you play a significant role in helping your child navigate the complexities of making and maintaining friendships. Every age group requires a tailored approach to fostering these connections. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with insights on how to guide your child through the process of making friends at different stages of their life. Remember, you children are learning how to be friends by watching how you interact with them and with other adults, including your spouse or partner.

1. Early Childhood (Ages 3-7): During these formative years, focus on teaching your child social skills like sharing, taking turns, and empathizing with others. Encourage playdates and activities that promote interaction with peers. Model positive social behaviors and emphasize the importance of kindness. Teach them to use their words to express themselves and resolve conflicts peacefully.
2. Late Childhood and Pre-Adolescence (Ages 8-12): As your child enters school, help them understand the qualities of a good friend, such as trust, respect, and shared interests. Encourage them to participate in group activities, clubs, or sports where they can meet peers with similar passions. Discuss the concept of inclusivity and encourage your child to be inclusive in their interactions. Teach them active listening skills and how to initiate conversations.
3. Early Teen Years (Ages 13-15): During this stage, guide your child through the challenges of forming deeper connections. Encourage them to explore their interests and passions, which can lead to friendships with those who share similar hobbies. Discuss the importance of mutual respect, honesty, and setting healthy boundaries in friendships. Help them navigate conflicts and disagreements by teaching effective communication skills.
4. Late Teen Years (Ages 16-18): As your child approaches adulthood, focus on helping them develop meaningful and lasting friendships. Encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and engage with diverse groups of people. Discuss the impact of digital communication on friendships and teach them the value of face-to-face interactions. Encourage them to be supportive and dependable friends while prioritizing self-care.

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Guiding your child in making friends at different ages involves nurturing their social skills, empathy, and self-confidence. Create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their social experiences and concerns. Remember that each stage presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. By teaching them the importance of respect, inclusivity, effective communication, and self-awareness, you empower your child to navigate the intricate landscape of relationships with confidence and authenticity. Your guidance as a parent lays the foundation for healthy and meaningful friendships that will contribute to their overall well-being.

*Updated October 5, 2023

Learn more about Parenting and how to communicate effectively with your kids.

Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s has worked in the helping profession since he started college in 1990. After completing his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas, Austin in 1994, he attended the highly-regarded University of Minnesota to earn his Master’s degree in 1997. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is recognized as a Board Approved Supervisor by the State of Texas Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. Jonathan has completed Level 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling, and in 1998 received training from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in Advanced Critical Incident Stress Management & Debriefing. To learn more about Jonathan’s practice, click here: Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s.