Q: My daughter started kindergarten this past fall and does not seem to be making any friends. What should I do?
A: First of all, don’t make a big deal of it. Some children who are placed in a new environment prefer to observe those around them before making any moves. This may be the case with your daughter. Second, perhaps you could ask your daughter if there are any children in her class she would like to have over for fun. Then, maybe you could take her and two or three others on a picnic or to the playground on a Saturday afternoon.
Q: I’ve overheard my 10-year-old daughter talking negatively with her friends about another girl in their class. Should I pretend I don’t hear?
A: It’s important for you to say something to your daughter and her friends. Ask them what makes them say these things and then talk to them about the importance of treating others the way they would like to be treated. Encourage them to reach out to her, including her in conversations and school activities.
Q: I am home-schooling my three children, and they dread going to church on Sundays because the other kids make fun of them. What should I do?
A: Perhaps you could arrange a time for all the children to get together for games, food and a time of conversation. This might make everyone feel more comfortable around one another. It may also be helpful for you to get to know the parents of these other children and to encourage your children to respond with kindness to the kids who are making fun of them.
