Signs That Your Child Is Unhappy With Their School Friends

Expert advice for navigating your young child’s friendship concerns

- Dr McAlpine

When your child goes off to primary school, making friends becomes integral to their growth and development. But these friendships can be tricky to navigate, particularly if they wind up around peers who make them feel uncomfortable.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine (winwinparenting. com) notes that while most early school year friendships provide positive experiences, such as “learning to share, developing empathy and collaboration skills”, unhelpful peer relationships can have a “significant negative impact”.

“Parents need to be aware of their child’s friendships to ensure they are positive,” says Dr McAlpine.

ENCOURAGE COMMUNICATION

It’s crucial that parents consistently keep the lines of communication open with their child. “Make opportunities to talk, whether it’s on the way home from school, at dinner or before bed. Do this by asking questions about their day, friendships and school,” suggests Dr McAlpine.

Parents can also help guide their child towards positive friendships by talking about what makes someone “a good friend”.