When Your Child Struggles to Make Friends

Few things are harder to watch than your child struggling to make friends. You see them hovering at the edge of a group, or coming home quiet on a Friday. It hurts because you know how much they want to belong.

First, resist the urge to fix it directly. Arranging playdates or coaching them on what to say can backfire — it sends the message that something is wrong with them. Instead, focus on building their social confidence. Help them practise one small thing: 'Can I play?' is often enough.

And remember that friendship skills develop at different ages. Some children are naturally social; others need more time. What matters is that they have at least one connection — even one good friend makes an enormous difference. Celebrate that connection, and trust that their social world will grow.