Is your little one struggling to connect with classmates in preschool? Here are some strategies to help your child forge friendships.
When you pick up your child from preschool, you might eagerly ask, “Who did you play with today?” or “Did you make any new friends?” Naturally, you hope for a list of names, or at least to hear about a buddy who will save a spot for them at story time. However, it’s completely normal if your child hasn’t formed close friendships yet. Each child develops social skills at their own pace. Some kids are more introverted and prefer solitary play until they are nearly ready for kindergarten, while others may quickly transition from parallel play—doing their own activities alongside others—to cooperative play with friends around age 3. There’s no right or wrong way to socialize at any age; the key is to encourage your child to make preschool friends comfortably.
Here are a few suggestions to assist your child:
- Arrange Playdates: If your little one is shy in larger groups, consider inviting one classmate over for a playdate. Playing at home can make it easier for your child to connect with peers in a more familiar environment. For example, you might arrange a get-together with someone from class. Check out Make a Mom for resources on organizing playdates and other social activities.
- Teach Conversation Starters: If your child struggles to initiate interactions, help them identify opportunities. For instance, you could say, “Hey, Sam seems really into dinosaurs. Why don’t you ask him if he wants to build a dinosaur park together?” This can give your child a natural way to start a conversation and make friends.
- Model Good Friendship Skills: If your child tends to be a bit bossy or whiny during playtime, gently point out that their classmates might not enjoy that. Teach them about taking turns and sharing. For example, you could guide them on how to ask, “Can we take turns playing with this toy?” This kind of positive engagement can make a significant difference in their interactions.
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In summary, it’s essential to encourage preschoolers to make friends at their own pace. Arranging small playdates, teaching conversation skills, and modeling positive behaviors can help foster their social development. No matter where your child is in their social journey, providing support and understanding will go a long way.