Yesterday we found out who our kids’ teachers will be for the upcoming school year. So, like any modern Mom, I started texting my kids’ friends’ parents to find out who got who for a teacher. After texting a few of my son’s buddies we learned that none of his close friends will be in his class this year. It’s not shocking that this happened. Over the course of their educational career, your child may eventually find themselves in a class without their close friends. It’s normal for them to initially feel a little sad and anxious about this, so how should we as parents handle it?
Tempting as it may be to ask to switch classes (which would be a logistical nightmare for schools and is probably not an option), here are some important things to consider first.
Their friends are in the same boat.
Your child is not alone. Everyone is starting a new year with a new teacher and a new classroom.
Encourage them to make new friends.
This is easier said than done, especially if you have a shy or introverted kiddo. Your child may struggle at first. Be sure to ask your child about their day and listen to what happened at lunch, art, recess, etc. Invite new friends over for a play date and get to know their parents.
Empathize with your child, but keep it in perspective.
Of course your child is going to be disappointed. Acknowledge their feelings and take a deep breath. Kids are resilient and their feelings can change quickly. One day they tell you they have no friends and the next day they’re talking about their new bestie.
This is a great opportunity to develop social skills.
School is a place where our kids learn important social skills, as well as, academic ones. Finding their place and making friends in a new group is a vital skill to develop and one they’ll rely on their entire lives.
Teachers turn a “bunch of kids” into a team every year.
Good teachers keep an eye out for students who aren’t mixing in and create opportunities to pair them up with different children.
There’s always recess.
Remind your kiddo that they can play with their friends at recess or during another activity which includes the whole grade.
There’s still time to play with friends outside of school.
Host friends over for play dates and help your child stay in touch with their “old” buddies. Maybe they can sit together on the bus, carpool or participate in an extra-curricular activity together.
What are your suggestions for helping kids make new school friends?
