As a childcare professional, I often get asked how to help kids make friends, especially in social settings like the playground. Building friendships can be challenging, but with a few simple steps, you can guide your kids to connect and make friends.
Key Takeaways:
- Encourage kids to approach others with a smile and introduce themselves.
- Teach kids to share and take turns with playground equipment.
- Help kids find common interests to bond over.
- Encourage them to join group games and activities.
How can parents help their kids make friends at the playground? Parents can help their kids make friends at the playground by encouraging them to introduce themselves, share, take turns, join group games, and find common interests with other kids.
Table of Contents
1. Start with a Friendly Introduction
One of the most important steps in making friends is simply saying hello. I’ve noticed that kids who start with a friendly introduction, like “Hi, my name is [Name],” are often more successful in making friends. Encourage your child to walk up to another child at the playground, smile, and introduce themselves. This small act of bravery can break the ice and open the door to a new friendship.
If your child is shy, practice introductions at home. Role-playing can be a great way to build confidence. You can take turns being the ‘new friend’ and have your child practice introducing themselves. Remember, the more they practice, the easier it will be in real-life situations.
2. Encourage Sharing and Taking Turns
Sharing and taking turns are fundamental social skills that help kids build friendships. Whether it’s sharing a swing or taking turns on the slide, these actions show kindness and consideration for others. I always tell parents to remind their kids that when they share, they are more likely to be included in play by other kids.
One strategy that works well is bringing an extra toy or game to the playground. This not only provides an opportunity for your child to share but also gives them something to bond over with other kids. For example, if your child brings a ball, they can invite others to join in a game, which can naturally lead to new friendships.
3. Find Common Interests
Kids connect over shared interests. Whether it’s a love for swings, a fascination with bugs, or an interest in make-believe games, finding common ground can make it easier for kids to bond. I suggest asking your child what they enjoy most at the playground and then encouraging them to look for other kids who enjoy the same things.
Read more: How to Help Your Child Make Friends
For instance, if your child loves playing pretend games, encourage them to invite others to join in. You might be surprised at how quickly kids with similar interests will come together to create their own little world. This shared activity can be the foundation for a lasting friendship.
4. Join Group Games and Activities
Group games and activities are a fantastic way for kids to make friends. Whether it’s a game of tag, hide and seek, or a group on the monkey bars, participating in group activities helps kids feel included and connected. Encourage your child to join in on these games, even if they don’t know the other kids yet.
One tip I always give parents is to teach their kids to ask, “Can I join?” It’s a simple question, but it can be very effective in helping them integrate into the group. Over time, your child will become more comfortable approaching groups and joining in, which will help them build friendships faster.
5. Model Positive Social Behavior
Kids learn a lot by watching their parents. When you model positive social behavior, like being friendly, polite, and inclusive, your kids are more likely to mirror these behaviors at the playground. Show them how to introduce themselves to other parents or make small talk while watching them play. Your actions will give them a blueprint for how to interact with other kids.
In my experience, parents who actively engage with others at the playground set a positive example for their kids. The more your child sees you being friendly and approachable, the more likely they are to do the same with their peers.
6. Be Patient and Supportive
Making friends can take time, especially for kids who are shy or anxious. It’s important to be patient and supportive, offering encouragement and praise when they make an effort. Celebrate small victories, like saying hello to a new friend or sharing a toy, as these are important steps in building their social confidence.
Remember, every child is different. Some may make friends quickly, while others need more time. The key is to keep encouraging them and providing opportunities for social interaction. Over time, with your support, your child will develop the social skills they need to make and keep friends.
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Goally’s Kid’s Tablet has one of the largest libraries of skill-building videos (like “How to Share” and “What To Do When You’re Lost”) in the Goal Mine app.👇
Helping your child make friends at the playground is all about providing them with the tools they need to connect with others. From practicing introductions to joining group games, each step is a building block for stronger social skills and meaningful friendships.
Helpful Resources
FAQ’s About How to Make Friends at the Playground
How can I help my shy child make friends?
Encourage your child to start with a simple "hello" and join group activities at the playground.
What are some easy ways for kids to make friends at the playground?
Kids can make friends by sharing toys, taking turns, and joining group games.
How important is it for kids to introduce themselves to make friends?
Introducing themselves with a smile helps kids break the ice and start new friendships.
What role does sharing play in helping kids make friends?
Sharing toys or snacks shows kindness and makes other kids more likely to include them in play.
How can I teach my child to be more social at the playground?
Practice social skills like introducing themselves and asking to join games before going to the playground.
This post was originally published on 10/12/2023. It was updated on 08/24/2024.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
