Though some children naturally adjust to social settings, others may be shy and find it difficult to make new friends. Parental encouragement is important when it comes to teaching kids how to communicate, share, and help one another. Here’s how to help your preschool-aged children build friendships with their peers. 

How to Encourage Preschoolers to Make Friends

1. Teach Conversation Skills 

Children tend to mimic the behavior of the adults in their lives. Speak to your kids in a way that will set a positive example for how they should communicate with others. Actively listening, paying attention, making eye contact, and responding appropriately will show your kids how to interact with peers. 

2. Show Them How to Read Facial Expressions 

Reading faces allows people to anticipate another person’s mood or frame of mind, which facilitates social empathy. Use photos to help your kids match facial expressions to moods and situations. The ability to identify emotions will make other children feel more comfortable around your kids.

3. Encourage Empathy & Concern 

Empathy and concern are crucial for making friends and sustaining relationships. Teach your preschool children how to put themselves in the position of someone else and imagine how they might feel. You can do this by using characters in their favorite TV shows or books as examples. 

4. Practice With Family 

Help your kids practice their social skills in their everyday family life. This might include showing them how to share toys with their siblings and encouraging them to talk to each other about the games they want to play. Compliment them when they successfully take turns and come to agreements. 

If you’re looking for a preschool that will foster your child’s social development and help them make friends, get in touch with Lov-In Hands Daycare in Rosedale and Queens, NY. This learning center provides pre-kindergarten and after school programs to children between the ages of three weeks and five years. Call (718) 723-0324 to ask about the preschool curriculum and to enroll your kids. Visit their website to learn more about babysitters for hire and their service area.