Friendships

Making and keeping healthy friendships are important for most children, but the skills needed to make and keep friends are rarely taught.

Some children learn by watching others, but many benefit from clear guidance and support. These skills take time to develop.

Creating opportunities for friendship

Children need both opportunities and support to make friends.

You can help by:

noticing when and where your child might meet others
thinking about your child’s interests and preferred social settings (1:1, small groups or larger gatherings)
giving them a role in social situations to help reduce anxiety (for example, helping with snacks at a family event or setting up materials in class)

Friendships often grow when children:

Children often see friendships in practical terms, choosing friends based on shared activities.