Making friends at school can be difficult, but there are ways you can encourage your child to make friends. One way is to send them to school with a positive attitude or to help them find common interests with others. It’s also vital to provide opportunities for socialization, such as playdates and sleepovers. Finally, be supportive when your child experiences setbacks and be a good role model for healthy friendships. Making friends at a preparatory school can be daunting, but with these four tips, your child will be on their way to making new friends in no time.
1. INSPIRE THEM TO Join Extracurricular Activities
Encouraging your child to participate in extracurricular activities is a great way to help them make friends at their preparatory school. Joining a sport or club is ideal for your child to meet other students. It can be difficult for children when they first start at a new school, and by participating in activities, they’ll have the opportunity to meet other students with similar interests as theirs. Additionally, it’s a perfect way for your child to develop new skills and friendships that will last long after they graduate from preparatory school.
2. ADVICE THEM TO Find Someone They Share Interests With
Many parents worry about their children’s social lives when they start preparatory school. It’s natural for children to want to find friends with whom they share interests. However, it’s also essential for them to be open-minded and willing to get to know new people. This way, they can make the most of their school experience and develop lasting friendships.
3. Show Interest and Support for Their Friendships
Making friends is essential when growing up, and it can be particularly challenging when your child attends a preparatory school. According to Education Next, about one in ten children attend private schools, so they might have lost some friends who went to public schools. You can encourage your child to make new friends by showing interest and support for their friendships. Spend time with their friends, invite them for dinner or just to hang out, and let them know that you approve of their company. It’ll help your child feel more comfortable at school and make it easier for them to form lasting relationships. Letting your child know that you support their friendships and are happy for them will help encourage them to continue developing friendships with others at school.
4. Give Them Space
It’s important not to smother your child and let them have some independence when forming friendships at school on their own. Encouraging your child to make friends at their preparatory school by giving them space is a great way to help them adjust. It can be difficult for children when they first start at a new school, and they must have time to get comfortable with their surroundings before meeting new people. If you’re too pushy, your child may feel uncomfortable or pressured and not want to socialize. By giving them some independence, you allow them to explore and find friends that they click with.
If you’re looking to enroll your child in a preparatory school, contact us at Willows Preparatory School today. We’ll ensure we provide your child with an education and environment that will benefit them for years.
