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Parents Can Teach Children How to Make Friends

Eleven-year-old Sarah and her family just moved to a new town where her father, a military serviceman, was recently transferred. Today is Sarah's first day at her new school, the third she has attended since kindergarten.

Although she has always had one or two good friends, Sarah is shy and has difficulties developing friendships. Going to a new school makes her nervous and a bit upset to her stomach.


That morning Sarah's mother tries to ease her anxieties by reminding her that she is smart, nice and funny and will make friends quickly. As Sarah approaches her classroom, Sarah remembers her mother's words, takes a deep breath and opens the door.

Everyone needs friends. They are the principal source of happiness and hope in our lives. To some people, making friends is easy, and to others like Sarah, it is very difficult. All children have the capacity to make friends, however, making friends is a skill.

By setting good examples in your life, you can help your children learn how to make friends. Try:

  • Helping them realize their own strengths.
  • Having a sense of humor about yourself and your shortcomings.
  • Listening to them without criticism.
  • Being kind, giving compliments, waving to a friend, opening the door for someone.
  • Being understanding of what others are going through by showing empathy.
  • Not complaining. Instead, teach your children to accept what can't be changed by working hard to change the things that can be changed.
 
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