The International Day of Friendship celebrates the power of friendships that bridge the gaps between communities and cultures. Friendship is defined as the accumulation of bonds between a group of individuals wherein strong comradery and trust are built. In building friendships at young ages, children can create a powerful foundation for lifelong learning and emotional well-being.
Friendship matters in early childhood
As soon as children begin to interact with others, they form bonds that provide enriching learning opportunities through interaction and observation. These learnings are essential as children grow and form their sense of self as they begin to unpack:
- Empathy to understand how others feel
- Communication to understand and gather insight into expressing needs and listening to others
- Resolving conflict by employing a peaceful problem solving approach
- Confidence as they being to feel valued and accepted by others
How to nurture friendships at home
Families play a pivotal role in nurturing their child to form and find meaningful friendships. In being an example to children parents/carers can guide their child by:
- Modelling kindness, children can observe their parents/carers to absorb examples of being empathetic and respectful in interactions
- Sharing how you feel, children can learn to discuss their emotions and how to respond
- Encouraging your child to play with their friends, encourages them to practice sharing, taking turns and collaborating
- Celebrating differences, parents/carers can show their children that everyone has unique qualities that should be cherished and celebrated
Hear from our learners
Friendships in the early years are one of the first ways that children learn to connect with the communities around them. In nurturing these bonds in partnership with families, St Nicholas Early Education is supporting the children in their care to form meaningful, lifelong friendships.
