• Behavior
  • Parenting

Helping young children make friends

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A girl and a boy playing with Legos together in a child care setting.
Making friends can be fun and exciting for young children but it's not always easy. With social distancing lingering in a post-pandemic world, screens have replaced some real-life friendships. This lack of in-person human interaction can affect how children socialize when meeting new peers.  

“There is a difference in what social skills some children have been able to develop and/or practice due to safety protocols that were put into place during the pandemic,” says Stephanie De La Cruz, LMHC, RPT-S, Clinical Supervisor for the Center for Child Counseling. “For example, sharing with others and taking turns are major social skills that are nurtured with ongoing interaction with other children,” she says. 

If a child has not been practicing these skills, interacting with new children can be a challenge. 

For parents, De La Cruz says to provide judgement-free emotional support to help children struggling with fear and anxiety in social settings. Model friendly behavior outside of the home, such as greeting others kindly and introducing themselves to someone new. 

Reading age-appropriate books on making friends and role-playing scenarios will help boost a child’s confidence, says De La Cruz.

There are lots of options to get children involved in community activities and lessen screen time, like organized sports leagues and events at local parks. Local libraries and community recreation departments list upcoming events and classes for various age groups each month, and who to contact for more information. Check out the weekly list of Things to Do, by signing up for an EveryParent+ account on EveryParentPBC.org, or download the free EveryParent app to learn more.

For those with a creative side, the Resource Depot in West Palm Beach has unique opportunities for children to socialize outside of their comfort zones. “Turning waste into wonder” since 1999, they repurpose gently used items that may otherwise be discarded into new creations and artwork.

Chelsea Odum, Director of Education & Artist Relations, says Resource Depot provides an environment for children to be creative while working on their communication skills. 

“Youth are more likely to meet someone outside of their normal bubble and will find someone with similar interest as them in art or making,” she says. 

Resource Depot has summer activities, afterschool programs, themed events throughout the year, and a “TreasuRE Boutique” and “Materials Marketplace” to explore. 

Odum says although some children can be shy at first, the fun and inviting maker’s space at Resource Depot quickly eases their concerns about meeting new people. 

“Once they have fun materials and project ideas in front of them, they get focused on what they are doing and are able to open up. They love talking about what they are making, and they also enjoy seeing what other students are making,” she says. 


• Stephanie De La Cruz, LMHC, RPT-S, Clinical Supervisor, Center for Child Counseling
• Chelsea Odum, Director of Education & Artist Relations, Resource Depot 

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