Can Parents Help Children Make Friends?
As the current term moves along, parents may find themselves wondering how to support their children in navigating friendships—an essential part of their social and emotional development. In today’s fast-paced world, where screens often dominate interactions, fostering real-world connections is more important than ever.
Why Friendships Matter
The past few years have shown us the profound impact of isolation on children’s social lives. While technology has provided a bridge, it cannot replace the human connections that are essential for building emotional intelligence and social competency. Friendships help children develop critical life skills, from understanding non-verbal cues to resolving conflicts and fostering empathy.
The Role of Communication Skills
Non-verbal communication—eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, tone, and body language—plays a significant role in social interactions. Studies suggest that up to 70% of communication is non-verbal, making it crucial for children to learn how to “read” these signals. These skills are foundational for navigating relationships and interpreting the world around them.
Helping Children Navigate School Friendships
For many children, school is the primary setting for forming friendships. Some may find it challenging to reconnect with old friends or forge new ones, especially after prolonged periods of disruption.
As a parent, you set the tone for how relationships are built. Children often model the behaviors they observe at home. By demonstrating kindness, empathy, and open communication in your relationships, you provide a blueprint for your child to follow as they find their “tribe.”
Encouraging Social Opportunities
Take note of the names and activities your child mentions when talking about their day. Use these as a starting point to encourage playdates, group activities, or shared hobbies. While some children may be hesitant initially, providing gentle encouragement can help them build confidence.
Participating in extracurricular activities such as sports or creative clubs can also introduce your child to new social circles. Shared interests create a natural foundation for friendships, while exposing children to different personality types and group dynamics.
Addressing Friendship Challenges
Not all friendships come easily, and conflicts are a natural part of social development. Children often practice handling social dynamics through play and role-playing, but real-life situations can be more complex.
If your child seems upset or withdrawn, initiate a conversation in a low-pressure setting, like during a walk or drive. Listen carefully to their concerns, and help them explore solutions:
Feeling excluded? Suggest ways to join group activities.
Being teased? Encourage seeking out other friends or groups.
Lacking confidence? Highlight their strengths and remind them of past successes.
Experiencing bullying? Partner with their teacher or school to address the issue.
The Power of Friendship
Friendships are more than just playdates—they are a cornerstone of a child’s emotional growth. With your guidance, your child will learn to form meaningful relationships, manage conflicts, and build resilience. These connections contribute not only to happiness but also to the development of life-long social skills.
As Bette Midler famously sang, “You’ve Gotta Have Friends.” Let’s help our children nurture this gift.
References
Mary Digges is an early childhood teacher, lecturer, and consultant specializing in bilingual and multilingual education. She has worked in Australia, Singapore, and China and is an Early Childhood Consultant for Angsana Education.