Remember how stressed we would be at the start of the school year? We were worried about who our classmates would be, what they would think about us, and how to deal with the cliques and unspoken social rules? It’s even more terrifying for a child who’s transferred to a new school! Here’s how to help her adjust.
Boost her confidence
Remind her that she has made friends successfully in the past, and there’s no reason that other people won’t like her too. Assure her that most kids feel the same way and are also in search of new friends. Reaching out is the first step to building new friendships.
Help her break through the ice
Give her tips on how to make the first move by introducing herself and inviting a potential friend to play or sit with her during lunch. You can also share our tips for expanding the circle of friends; while written for adults, it is just as applicable to kids, too!
Help her seek people with similar interests
Encourage your child to develop many interests since this is the starting point of many friendships. Then, help her find clubs or organizations where she can meet other kids who enjoy the same hobby or collect the same things.
Listen to her
Ask her how her day went; give undivided attention as she shares her experiences. Since she’s in a new school, a stable and loving home environment is especially important.
Support her efforts
Encourage her to invite a new friend over to dinner. Pack an extra lunch or bake a batch of cookies she can share with her classmates.
Photo from bbc.co.uk
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