Home » Fostering Friendships »
The Art of Making and Keeping Friends
Just like anything else that is important, friendships must be nurtured. This means teaching children specific social skills and giving them the opportunity to practice these skills.
- Help your child make a good first impression.
Before an interaction can take place, someone must start it. Learning to greet others with a hello, a wave, or a smile is a skill that children will use throughout their lives in many different situations. For children who have difficulty moving or speaking, try pointing out to peers the similarities they share and suggesting specific ways to talk or play together. Many parents have noticed that when their children are dressed and groomed in a popular and attractive way, there is a better chance that peers will respond positively. - Teach your child specific social skills.
At the playground, you might teach your child to identify peers who are already playing together and encourage her to make casual contact and join in ongoing activities. Practice other social skills at home first. You might take turns in a simple card game, or practice trading ("If I give you this book, can you give me that toy?"). - Identify children who show an interest in your child.
Find out who your child plays with at school or which children show a special interest in him. You might find out from a teacher or other reliable person. Use this information to identify which children you may want to approach for play dates or buddy arrangements. - Set up play dates.
Invite children with and without disabilities over for a play date after school or on the weekend. It is helpful to prepare beforehand to ensure the experience is a positive one. Choose toys that bring children together, such as balls and board games as opposed to toys that often encourage children to play alone, such as crayons, bicycles or books. Organize a specific activity such as cooking (cookies are typically a big hit!) or an art project to encourage positive shared experiences. Other options include trips to the park, local concerts, high school plays, popular restaurants or ice cream shops. Play dates usually last one to two hours - short enough so each child wants to have another play date soon!