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However, parents are often apprehensive about the negative impact of unhealthy social behaviour \u2013 such as bullying and ragging \u2013 on their children. Consequently, they cannot strike the right balance between genuinely nurturing and protecting their children and stifling their growth by being overprotective. To alleviate such situations, here are some beneficial ways in which parents may help their children make friends in a school environment:<\/p>\n
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1. Interaction Through Participation<\/h3>\n
Premier Montessori schools<\/a> understand the significance of group activities and interactive sessions. Subsequently, they organise many such programmes such as plays and skits, debates, group dances, team sports etc., through which students can interact independently with one another under close supervision. Such activities also help students form coherent groups with a sense of purpose and a common objective. These aspects strengthen students\u2019 integrity and help them become more sensitive to each other\u2019s needs. Parents must encourage children to participate in such activities, coordinating with teachers whenever required and addressing any challenges along the way.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n Parents often insist on their children always mingling with their peers to prevent them from being loners. However, just like every other aspect of life, friendships must happen organically and cannot be forced. Moreover, introversion is a personality trait and not a negative attribute to be rectified. Thus, parents must be mindful of students\u2019 personalities and allow them to establish their friendships independently. The best bet is to provide a nurturing and conducive environment to them and allow them to express themselves freely if they choose to. The foundation for any lasting association is positive regard for the other person and a consideration of their feelings. When students understand their peers\u2019 emotional states, they can better respond in tense situations and solve any problems that may emerge between them. Parents must establish a sensitive and empathetic home environment, thus setting an example for their children to imbibe these qualities. Such attributes can help them empathise with others and foster long-lasting friendships.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n Sometimes, to push their children to excel in academics, parents compare students\u2019 scores with those of their peers. This comparison can cause feelings of hatred in children\u2019s minds, preventing them from establishing close friendships. Parents must avoid comparing their children to their peer groups, instead acknowledging their talents and encouraging them to perform better for their own benefit. This non-judgemental parenting style boosts students\u2019 self-esteem and increases their confidence in their abilities.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n \t\t \u200d<\/p>\n Negative social behaviours like bullying and truancy can be quite difficult for parents to manage. Often, they try to curb these behaviours by punishing and reprimanding their children. However, such authoritarian parenting styles only suppress these behaviours at a superficial level. The best strategy to rectify such behaviour is to understand where it stems from \u2013 their innate fears and apprehensions that cause this need to dominate those around them or escape reality. For instance, bullying is the result of a constant need to reassure one\u2019s worth, which, in turn, is caused by an underlying sense of low self-esteem. Providing them with the necessary support to facilitate self-acceptance can help mellow such children and eliminate such behaviours.\u200d<\/p>\n Also Read: How to communicate with Differently-Abled Children<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Misunderstandings and fights often ensue between children due to their inability to understand their peers\u2019 specific needs, limitations and challenges. Sometimes, children may not include their differently-abled peers in their daily activities and interactions, which, in turn, may lead to the latter being socially isolated. In such situations, parents must educate their children about their classmates’ particular conditions and needs, facilitating empathy and harbouring positive social interactions. Parents of differently-abled children must boost their self-esteem by reaffirming their abilities and encouraging them to hone their skills.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n Being over-involved in your child\u2019s social life can cause them to retreat into their shells and lose their identities. It always helps to be there for your children while respecting their need for privacy. Instead of being their saviours, empower your children to resolve their conflicts, providing them with the necessary guidance and advice when required. A welcoming but non-interfering home environment can help them establish healthy friendships and become independent.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n The more we repress our thoughts and feelings, the more misunderstood we are. Communicating one\u2019s apprehensions and perceptions can help alleviate misunderstandings and bring about greater clarity in friendships. Some practical ways to enhance a child\u2019s communication skills are role-playing, mock interviews, language training sessions, and group activities. Premier Montessori schools organise these activities in the school premises and actively improve each student\u2019s communication skills.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n While being there for each other is a crucial aspect of friendship, boundaries are essential to avoid codependency. Educate your children about the importance of setting boundaries and politely turning down requests they cannot fulfil. For example, a child may be best friends with their classmate, but both the children need not opt for the same extracurricular activity<\/a>. In such cases, children may exercise their freedom and make independent decisions while supporting their friends with their choices.<\/p>\n \u200d<\/p>\n Sometimes, due to ego tussles, children may find it difficult to accept and apologise for their mistakes. Parents must teach children the importance of taking accountability for one\u2019s mistakes. Children must realise that apologising for a wrong behaviour does not make them inferior to the other person; instead, it helps them cherish and strengthen their friendships.2. Let it Flow \u2013 Never Force a Friendship!<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n3. Each Person Matters: Fostering a Sensitive Approach<\/h3>\n
4. Weeding Out Unhealthy Competition<\/h3>\n
![\"Campus](\"https:\/\/globalindianschool.org\/sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Campus-Tour-banner-min-jpg.webp\")
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/span><\/p>\n5. Addressing Your Child\u2019s Negative Social Behaviours<\/h3>\n
6. Sensitising Your Child to Other Children\u2019s Needs<\/h3>\n
7. Be There for Them, But Don\u2019t Be Them<\/h3>\n
8. Communication is the Key<\/h3>\n
9. Setting Essential Boundaries in Friendship<\/h3>\n
10. Accepting Mistakes to Amend Friendships<\/h3>\n
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