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  Making new friends can be exciting, but it can also be a bit scary for children, especially when starting a new school or moving to a new grade with unfamiliar faces. Having good friends at school is important because it makes children feel happier, more connected, and more comfortable. As a parent, you can play an essential role in helping your child make new friends by providing support and teaching them some key social skills. Here are some ways to help your child feel more confident and make new friends at school.
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  1. Talk to Your Child About Friendship

The first step in helping your child make friends is to talk about the importance of friendships and what it means to be a good friend. Explain that friends are people who share similar interests, respect each other, and make us feel good about ourselves. Talking openly about friendships will make your child more aware of what to look for in a friend and how to treat others.
What to Do
  • Discuss qualities of a good friend: Encourage your child to think about what makes someone a good friend, such as kindness, honesty, and being fun to be around. This will help them recognize and seek out these qualities in others.
  • Explain that it takes time: Let your child know that making friends doesn’t always happen overnight. Friendships take time to build, so it’s okay if they don’t have a best friend.

  1. Encourage Them to Join School Activities

One of the easiest ways for children to meet new people and make friends is by participating in group activities at school. Joining a club, sports team, or other extracurricular activities allows children to meet classmates who share the same interests, making it easier for friendships to develop naturally.
What to Do
  • Explore their interests: Talk to your child about the activities or hobbies they enjoy, and see if any clubs or sports teams at school match those interests. For example, if your child loves reading, they might enjoy joining a book club.
  • Encourage participation: Encourage your child to try something new. Even if they are a bit nervous at first, participating in group activities will give them a chance to meet other students in a more relaxed setting outside of the classroom.

  1. Teach Basic Social Skills

Sometimes, children need a little guidance on how to start conversations and interact with new people. Social skills like introducing yourself, asking questions, and being a good listener can help your child feel more confident when meeting new classmates.
What to Do
  • Practice conversation starters: Role-play with your child and practice some simple ways to start a conversation, like asking, “What games do you like to play?” or “What’s your favourite subject in school?” Encourage your child to smile and make eye contact when speaking to others.
  • Teach active listening: Explain the importance of listening carefully when someone else is talking and asking follow-up questions to show interest. For example, if someone mentions they have a pet, your child could ask, “What kind of pet do you have?” This helps keep the conversation going.
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  1. Help Them Build Confidence

Sometimes, children struggle to make new friends because they feel shy or unsure of themselves. Building confidence in your child can make it easier for them to approach others and feel comfortable in social situations.
What to Do
  • Highlight their strengths: Remind your child of their unique qualities and talents. When children feel good about themselves, they are more likely to feel comfortable reaching out to others.
  • Encourage positive self-talk: Teach your child to use positive self-talk when they feel nervous. For example, saying things like, “I’m good at making friends” or “I can do this” can help boost their confidence.
  • Set small goals: If your child is shy, encourage them to set small goals, like saying hello to one new person a day or joining in on a group activity. These small steps can help build their confidence over time.

  1. Arrange Playdates or Social Opportunities

If your child struggles to make friends at school, arranging playdates or social outings can give them a chance to interact with classmates outside of the school setting. Playdates allow children to get to know each other in a more relaxed environment, which can help strengthen budding friendships.
What to Do
  • Talk to other parents: Reach out to the parents of your child’s classmates to arrange playdates or meet-ups at a local park or playground. These informal gatherings can help your child connect with others more easily.
  • Encourage group activities: If a one-on-one playdate feels too intimidating, consider organizing a group activity like a trip to the zoo, a movie, or a picnic. Group outings offer more chances for interaction and help take the pressure off.

  1. Be Patient and Offer Encouragement

Making new friends can take time, and it’s important to be patient with your child as they navigate the social world of school. Offer support and encouragement, and remind them that everyone makes friends at their own pace.
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Final Thoughts

Helping your child make new friends in school is about providing support, building their confidence, and teaching them the social skills they need to connect with others. With time, patience, and encouragement, your child will soon be surrounded by friends who bring joy and companionship into their school life.
Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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This article was first published on 10th September 2024

chidiogo-akaelu

Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.

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