Friends make every playground better. Here’s how to help your child make friends, from sharing a shovel to asking, “Can I play too?”
Being a friend is a skill, and it takes practice. Little ones learn it one turn, one shared toy and one “sorry” at a time. You can help at home with a few simple words.
What it means for your child
Friendship grows in stages. Here’s what it can look like.
- Babies: Watching other babies is endlessly interesting. A smile back and forth is their first friendship.
- Toddlers: They often play side by side more than together. That’s a start. Help them take turns with short, simple words.
- Preschoolers: Now real friends and favorite games show up. Help them practice asking, “Can I play too?” and what to do if the answer is no.
- School-age kids: Friendships matter a lot now, and so do hurt feelings. Listen, and help them think through what to say or do.
Try this tonight
Tonight, talk about friends.
- Ask, “Who did you play with today, and what did you play?”
- Ask one more: “What was the most fun part?”
- Practice one friend phrase together, like “Can I play too?” or “Want to take turns?”
Words you can use
- “Who did you play with today?”
- “Can I play too?”
- “You were a good friend when you shared.”
At Nana’s Place
Our two Glendale buildings care for children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, with day, evening and overnight care. Friends make every day better. Schedule a visit and see our space.
Questions parents ask
My child is shy. How can I help them make friends?
Start small, with one friend at a time in a quiet place. Practice what to say at home, and praise small brave steps, like saying hello.
How do I teach my toddler to share?
Try taking turns instead of sharing all at once. Use a timer, say “Your turn, then my turn” and cheer when they wait. Waiting is hard when you’re little, so keep turns short.
Kind words make good friends, so read Kind words are like sunshine. And when a friendship hits a bump, big feelings are welcome here too.
