Friendship skills evolve over time, and kids work on different skill sets at different ages. Preschool and early elementary children work on conversation starters, joining groups at play and sharing and taking turns. Older elementary kids learn to resolve conflict, assert themselves and slide in and out of groups. It’s normal through the course of friendships to experience ups and downs, successes and mistakes. These are all great opportunities for your kids to learn as they grow. Kids need guidance when they accidentally make mistakes that hurt others. You can help them develop empathy by pointing out how others could feel. LEARN MORE
