Who We Are | Friends and Supporters | You're Not Alone | We Recommend | My Child | Store

Search
Search the Invest In Kids website.

Ages and Stages

What to expect and how you can help, as your child grows and develops.


Answers for Parents

Reliable information on a wide range of topics.


Thanks!

Thank You Scotia Capital for supporting this website.

Home > My Child > Answers For Parents


My Child
Playmates: Learning to make friends

Here are some ways to encourage your child to make friends:

  • Try to provide regular opportunities for your child to play with others.


  • For younger children, consider joining a play-group or meeting with other parents who have young children.


  • For school-age children, try to encourage playtime outside of school - perhaps suggest your child invite friends home, or sign her up for after school activities or teams.


  • For children of all ages, try to include both group play and one-on-one time.


  • Allow your child to pick his own friends. Try not to force friendships on your child.


  • Remember that a child's temperament will affect the way she plays with other children. Some children might be slow warming up to others, whereas other children are outgoing and fast to approach peers. If she is slower to warm up, then provide some extra time for her to get acquainted with others and encourage smaller group play - your child may feel more comfortable with less children.

Printer Friendly Version

Related Content






Professionals

Feedback
We built this site for you. How are we doing?

tell us



Join Us
Helpful tips and parenting news delivered right to your inbox.

sign me up



Mini Poll
I wish my spouse/partner would do more of the parenting.

I agree
I disagree
I am somewhere in between
submit

Help Us Help Kids
Donate Online

Your Child's First Five Years