How to help your kids make friends at a new school

Starting a new school can be a nerve-wracking experience for students, who often wonder if they will encounter familiar faces or find friends to play with during recess. A young girl named Iman Fair-Seldon, who is about to begin first grade in southern New Jersey, expressed her nervousness but also her excitement about making new friends. Transitioning to a new school or moving from elementary to middle school can be daunting, and parents may find themselves unsure of how to assist their children through these changes.

Experts suggest that parents can play a significant role in helping their children make friends at a new school. Dr. Asha Barber Sutton, a licensed marriage and family therapist, emphasizes that parents have a substantial influence on their children's social interactions, and their actions as caregivers can greatly impact how children experience the world.

To foster friendships, parents can organize playdates and attend their children's birthday parties, providing opportunities for their kids to connect with others. They can also introduce activities that encourage children to interact with peers, such as parks, playgrounds, and sleepovers.

While parents should be supportive, they should also allow their children to navigate friendships on their own. Children need to learn how to identify good friends, such as those who are kind, honest, and comfortable with themselves. Parents can facilitate this process by asking their children questions about the qualities they value in a friend, helping them develop an understanding of what makes a meaningful friendship.

Jaiden Journet, a 14-year-old starting at a new high school, advises parents to encourage their kids to reflect on common interests and shared experiences with others, which can serve as a foundation for building strong friendships.