Oh, Behave: How can I help my 9-year old be more social?

Q: My nine-year-old daughter’s best friend is moving away. My child has a hard time making friends. How can I help her be more social? – SHERI V, HALIFAX, NS

Allow
a weekend or two for your daughter to be on her own before asking her
to meet the challenges ahead. Her friend’s exit has probably put a lot
of stress on her right now.

Although
the usual means of assisting with friendship building is to widen the
social net (encouraging friends to visit; signing the child up for group
lessons or activities) be cautious in doing too much of this. Each one
brings opportunity and possible stressors for the child who is shy.
Having her participate and select (with the firm knowledge she has to
go!) can allow you to learn a lot in the process.