Understanding-Childhood-Friendships

As the great poet, John Donne wrote in the 17th century, "No man is an island entire of itself;

every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main…"

No one can be alone in life. We need others to support us mentally, physically, emotionally and

spiritually. Relationships, and in particular friendships, can sustain us throughout our lives. Even

when romantic relationships end, we get laid off, or become ill, true friendships endure. When

times get tough, we know we always have someone to turn to who can help us in a practical

way or a supportive way, as we cry on their shoulder and then move on to deal with the issue

that has arisen.

But good friendships are not a matter of accident or chance. They come from skills cultivated

when we are younger, which can help us form life-time friendships even in our earliest years.

Like every other aspect of growing up, children need to learn friendship skills. They learn them

from parents and from their peers.

In this guide, we will be looking at the nature of children’s friendships, how they form, and how

we as parents can help ensure they are able to form lasting friendships and avoid negative

relationships such as bullying.

So, let’s get started with a look at the importance of friends