How to Help Young Children Develop Social Skills and Friendships
Why friendships matter in early childhood
Early friendships are not just cute; they are powerful growth tools. Children who learn to get along well with others develop empathy, communication, emotional control, and conflict management.
Even toddlers and preschoolers can make real connections with others that will influence their perceptions of themselves.
What early friendships look like
Toddlers:
- Play parallel to each other
- Take an interest in other people’s activities
- You may copy, hug or be upset when someone leaves
- You don’t understand how to share or take turns yet
Preschoolers (3 to 5 years old)
- Start to form preferences (I enjoy playing with Emma)
- Build together and role-play as a cooperative game.
- You can learn to negotiate and apologize, as well as share.
- Social conflict (You’re no longer my friend)
How Childcare Providers Can Support Social Growth
Encourage Positive Interactions
- Show kindness and respect in your conversation
- Group activities that involve cooperation (building, cooking and games)
- Teach social scripts. “Can I also play?” or “I do not like that.”
- Gently resolve conflicts: “Let’s have a turn” or “How do we fix it?”
Develop Emotional Vocabulary
- Feelings: “You seem frustrated.” Are you angry that he stole the toy?
- Guide response: “Next time, you can say, “I’m still using that.”
Children’s Social Skills Activities
- Turn-taking games (board games, ball toss)
- Dramatic Play (pretend to be in a school, restaurant or doctor’s office)
- Storytime focusing on friendship and feelings
- Group Art Projects Where kids create something together
- Circle Time with songs, sharing and partner activities
Problems can arise
It’s okay if some children need extra help building friendships.
- Play in small groups to reduce overwhelm
- Match a quiet kid with a friend who is kind and welcoming
- Celebrate small wins (“You have invited someone to come play today!”
- Involve families if behavior concerns persist
The Friendships We Have With Others Teach Us What it Means to be Human.
Early friendships are the foundation for emotional and social well-being throughout life. With a little help, children can connect, care, and cooperate.
