I think we all can agree as parents, our goal is to raise well rounded children. We want them to be kind to others, have confidence, be strong, help out others, and the list can go on and on! We just want our child to succeed at all things in life!
I am going to share on tips on how to raise your child to be a good friend to others. I think this is important, because we all need friends to lean on throughout our lives! They are wonderful to have so you can create memories, and friends just make life better! I think we all can name one person who was our best friend as a child, and all the amazing memories you had together. It is important for children to know how to connect with others.
5 Tips For Teaching Your Child to Be a Good Friend to Others
Not Be Selfish
One thing I know is, when I look for friends I want it to be a give and take relationship. You listen to me, I listen to you. Teaching your child not to be selfish but more selfless, and give to others is great. Teach them to share their toys, care for others when they are sad, cheer for family and friends when they achieve something and so on. Just make sure that they realize the world doesn’t revolve around them, and that we need to care about everyone else, as they care for you.
Self Esteem
It is important to help build up your child’s self esteem! Have a positive outlook on life, seeing the good in others, is a great quality to have. With a good self esteem it helps you be confident in your friendships and not question motives or if they truly like you! I also like to teach children to love every person no matter what our difference are. We are all beautifully made, and that we need to be kind and loving to everyone.
Trustworthy
This is one that they will learn as they grow. Teaching kids to be honest is something we all do as parents. As they get older, being able to admit the wrongs they do, and just being a good person. If you tell them something they don’t go and blab it. Again this one is for older kids, but you can also start young by having them be honest when they get caught doing something they probably shouldn’t.
Be a Role Model
Children really learn a lot from their mom and dad, or the adult figures in their life. Make sure you model a good friend to your friends. If you don’t really have many friends, then treat your family members well. Don’t talk bad about them, make sure you talk in a positive manner. When they see you being nice to strangers, having positive relationships with friends and family, they will begin to mimic those same characteristics.
Discuss Healthy Friendships
When your child is old enough, make sure you talk about positive and healthy friendships. That you give and take, and listen to each other. That the friendship is healthy and you lift each other up. Friendships are not about fighting or leaving feeling bad because they always say something hurtful. Make sure to share points of healthy friendships, so your kid knows what to look for.
Just make sure at the end of the day, you have that open communication with your child, so that they know if a friend isn’t being nice they can come to you. That you can help teach them, how to be a good friend, and how to find a good friend.
About the Author
Kelsey is a freelance writer for bloggers! A country girl from Kansas, who enjoys spending time with family! You can see what Kelsey has available for content in her Facebook Group.