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- 🌱 Making New Friends: Starting Conversations and Joining In 🌱
🌱 Making New Friends: Starting Conversations and Joining In 🌱
Hello Sproutly Families,
Friendship is one of childhood’s greatest teachers. Through friends, kids learn how to share, compromise, problem-solve, and feel a sense of belonging. But starting a new friendship can feel intimidating especially when children are entering a new classroom, playground, or activity.
As a family therapist, I’ve seen how powerful it is when children are given concrete tools to take that first step. With a little practice, kids can turn nervous energy into curiosity, and build the confidence to say, “Hi, can I play too?”
In this newsletter, you will get....
Parenting Tips
Photo by Naomi Shi on Pexels
Teaching Kids Friendship Starters
Instead of telling kids to “just make friends,” give them simple scripts and strategies they can actually use.
Try teaching these:
Friendly Opener: “Hi, my name is ___. Want to play?”
Joining In: “That looks fun—can I try?”
Finding Common Ground: “I like soccer too—what’s your favorite team?”
Offering an Invitation: “Do you want to draw with me?”
Using Curiosity: “What are you building?” or “How does that game work?”
Encourage role-playing at home. Kids feel more confident when they’ve practiced the words first.
Activity of the Week
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels
The “Two Questions” Challenge
Each morning, give your child the challenge: “Ask two different kids a question today.”
Keep the questions open-ended and friendly, so they invite conversation instead of yes/no answers.
Examples of Kid-Friendly Questions:
“What’s your favorite thing to do at recess?”
“Do you have a pet?”
“What’s your favorite snack?”
“Which game do you like best?”
“Do you like drawing/reading/sports?”
Why It Works
Reduces Pressure – Having a small script lowers anxiety about what to say.
Builds Social Muscles – Repeated practice helps kids feel more natural starting conversations.
Focuses on Connection, Not Perfection – The goal is the attempt, not whether the other child becomes a close friend right away.
Boosts Confidence – Celebrating effort (“I’m proud you asked a question today!”) helps kids internalize bravery in social settings.
Debrief at the end of the day with curiosity, not evaluation. Instead of asking, “Did you make a friend?” try, “Who did you ask your questions to today? What did you learn about them?” This keeps the focus on connection, not outcome.
Making new friends doesn’t always happen instantly, it’s a series of small steps. Each hello, each question, each invitation is an act of courage that helps a child feel more confident in their ability to connect.
By giving your child language, encouragement, and a safe space to practice, you’re not just helping them make friends. You’re teaching them the lifelong skill of reaching out, connecting, and belonging.
Warm regards,
Millie & Melissa
The Sproutly Team
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