As we all know, school starts soon, and many parents across the country are already buying school supplies and uniforms and preparing their kids for the new school year. For many, this means transitioning from middle school to high school, which can be a significant change.
The average class size in middle school ranges from 40-60 students, while the freshman class in high school can exceed 400 students. This increase can be overwhelming.
Also, not all close friends from middle school will move to the same high school, prompting the need to make new friends. This challenge is especially difficult for kids who may have a difficult time when making new friendships. In this blog, we’ll explore some ways to help children make new friends, keeping their mental health in mind.
Be Yourself:
One of the most important things to do to make a connection with someone is to be yourself. Embrace who you are, your hobbies, interests, and quirks, as they are what make you unique. You are more likely to form friendships when you are surrounded by individuals who respect you for who you are.
Participate in After-School Activities:
Signing up for after-school clubs, sports, or arts can help you meet peers who love the same things you do. Taking part in these activities increases your chances of making new friends. It also gives you a sense of belonging and purpose. On a side note, it also helps with self-esteem and self confidence.
Be Welcoming and Approachable:
Making new friends requires you to be approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and show you’re ready to talk with those around you. When you’re friendly, others will feel more comfortable approaching you and starting friendships. A simple smile goes a long way and it communicates happiness, acceptance and friendliness. If you have a hard time making eye contact, simply look at people’s mouths or ears; it gives the impression of eye contact without the discomfort.
Another way to be approachable is speaking to those around you. It may sound simple, but just saying “Hi” to a classmate goes a long way. This may lead to a conversation, and it might make all the difference. I get it, it is scary to enter a new school, walk to the classroom with new people, and say hi or introduce yourself. Just saying “Hi” could be the start of a great friendship.
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone:
It is normal to interact with people you know, but don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone and talk to others. High school gives you a great chance to meet more people and make connections outside your comfort. Breaking out of your comfort zone is not easy, but the more you do it, the easier it gets.
Practice Active Listening:
To create strong friendships, you need to listen. When talking to someone, pay attention and show you care about what they say. This builds trust and helps form deeper connections. Here are some tips on how to listen well:
– Don’t interrupt; do not cut people off when they are talking.
– Show you’re listening with nods and eye contact.
– Ask questions to show you are interested in what the other person is saying.
– Don’t judge or give advice unless asked.
– Just listen.
Have Patience:
Friendships need time to grow, so don’t worry if you can’t make close friends right away. Be patient in your efforts to connect with others. Meaningful friendships take time to form and grow.
Look After Yourself and Your Mental Health:
As we all know, high school can challenge and stress many of us out. This is why you should keep your well-being in mind. Always prioritize self-care and mental health. Set aside time for things that help you relax, like reading, working out, meditating, or even going for a walk. Taking care of your mental health positively affects your ability to build healthy friendships.
Making new friends in high school isn’t easy, but it’s worth it and can help you grow as a person. To increase your chances of forming close friendships that will enhance your high school years, try the tips mentioned above: be yourself, join after-school activities, stay open and friendly, and look after your mental health. Remember, it’s fine to take it slow; the right friends will appreciate you for who you are.
If your teen is having a hard time adjusting to the transition to high school, not fitting in, or if anxiety is affecting their performance, please reach out to me. I will be happy to work with them, or you could reach out to any of our wonderful therapists at Coral Gables Counseling Center.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another,
“What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” C.S. Lewis
