Making friends is a skill that is often taken for granted. Although children attend school to learn a basic education, little time is spent on teaching social skills. While some children are naturally gifted in this area, others may struggle at relating to peers. Fortunately, there are many ways to improve social competency---and make lasting friendships in the process.
Step 1
Join a sports team or club. The Reader's Digest explains that this can make it easier to connect with other children who have the same interests as you.
Step 2
Observe the classroom or lunchroom, looking for people who appear to be alone or shy. The Children, Youth and Women's Health Service suggests introducing yourself and asking the other child about his interests---maybe you will end up having much in common.
Step 3
Bring food in your lunch box that is easy to share, such as cookies or grapes. Sharing food can be a good way to break the ice and get to know other children.
Step 4
Speak confidently and positively, but never brag about yourself. This can make people assume you are selfish and unapproachable.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the Reader's Digest, sometimes social difficulty can be a sign that you have a neurological impairment that blocks the brain's ability to send and obtain social signals. This disorder is commonly referred to as nonverbal learning disability. Symptoms of this impairment include difficulty understanding nonverbal communication such as facial expressions, body language and voice tone. Some schools have programs and instructors specifically geared to treat this illness. These programs teach children how to read nonverbal cues and expressions.
- The Children, Youth and Women's Health Service warns against pushing yourself into a group or game or attempting to take it over. This can make other children think you are bossy or rude. Refrain from gossiping or bullying, even if it makes you feel part of a particular group. Always be sure that you treat other children the way you want to be treated---with respect. Even though it can be a difficult process to make new friends, don't give up! Consider switching to a different group or activity until you find other children to be friendly with.
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