Making friends in the new school year
Starting a new school year can be an exciting but nerve-wracking experience, especially when it comes to making new friends. As parents, we want to help our sons navigate these early days with confidence. But how?
First, help your son feel confident in his interests. Whether it’s sport, gaming, art, or music, kids often bond over shared passions. Encourage him to get involved in extracurricular activities at school that match his interests. Not only will this give him a chance to meet like-minded peers, but it will also help him feel part of something special.
Role-playing social situations at home can also help improve confidence. It might feel silly at first but practising introductions or how to ask someone to play can build his social skills and give him a little more courage.
Remind him that it’s okay if friendships take time to form – sometimes, it’s about finding the right people who appreciate him for who he is.
Also, stay involved in his school life. Ask about his day and offer a safe space to talk about any challenges he might face in making friends. Be sure to keep an open line of communication with teachers, they often notice who your son is connecting with and can offer helpful insights.
A few more quick tips:
Engage with other parents so you can organise playdates when friendships start to form.
Understand how your child likes to make friends and support them in that.
Focus on quality over quantity.
Encourage friendships outside of school like local clubs or sports teams.
Remember, friendship-building is a gradual process, and with your support, your son will find his tribe in no time!
Brought to you by Brighton Grammar School
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