Many parents and carers worry about their child making friends. Children don’t really start playing ‘together’ until they are about two and a half. Until then they play near each other rather than with each other. Friendship skills are tricky to learn and little children are just beginners.
All children are different and have different experiences;
In addition all of us have different personalities and levels of confidence. Some children will want to take friendship making more slowly than others. Try not to worry; children have plenty of time to learn how to be friends. There are some ways you can help your child gain confidence around other children.
Things You Can Do To Help
Remember all children are different but if you are worried speak to your child's nursery or early years setting, they will be happy to talk to you about how best to support your child. If you are still worried, contact Just One Number to talk to a health professional for advice and support.
You can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text Chathealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of the Healthy Child Programme team.
To speak to other Norfolk parents and carers, you can join our online community forum below.
