Finding Friends Who Appreciate You as You Are

What’s your child’s definition of a true friend? Navigating friendships is challenging for many children at different times. Someone who used to be your child’s good friend suddenly no longer wants to play together.

One mom described her daughter, Eva’s, difficult search for friends who would appreciate her for who she is – including her enthusiasm and sometimes loud voice. The group of girls she was with often shamed her for being too noisy. She asked Eva “Do these friends work for you?” Eva realized that she was happiest when she was with friends who enjoyed her excitement and didn’t try to tone her down.

Eva started working hard to make new friends who were comfortable with her just as she was. She was much happier with this new set of friends!