Making friends doesnt come naturally to all of usor to our kids.
Or sometimes, themakingpart isnt as challenging as thekeepingpart.
But its heartbreaking to think our kids might be lonely or excluded from their peers, particularly at school.
But how muchif anythingcan parents do to help without being overbearing or intrusive?
Some kids are just naturally introverted or savor their alone time.
But for those whodowish to have more friends, the reason for their struggle typically falls into two categories.
Barbara Greenberg,a clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents, breaks these reasons down inU.S.
News & World Report:
Some kids are simply shy and anxious.
This can lead to difficulty engaging comfortably with peers.
Because of their temperament and lack of comfort, they may choose to hang back and be avoidant.
Some kids have social difficulties.
Their interpersonal skills are lacking, which puts off peers and makes it tough to develop friendships.
They may not read social cues properly.
They may be controlling or aggressive or talk only about themselves and show little interest in others.
Or, they may be too clingy and possessive, needy or even a bit mean or sarcastic.
Knowingwhythey are having trouble making friends is the first step in helping them through it.
Do you find your kids difficult to interact with?
If so, consider that they may be interacting similarly with peers.
Provide them with opportunities to practice and hone their social skills.
Sign them up for activities theyre interested in.
This is a chance to both practice social skills and engage in an activity that the child enjoys.
Emphasize quality over quantity
So theyve got one friend at Girl Scouts and … thats it.
In fact, thats good!
It shows theycanmake a friend.
And it wont work anyway.
At best, your daughter will resent you.
Remember, too, that much of your influence resides in your own behavior.
Focus on modeling what good, healthy friendships look like by consistently maintaining yours.
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