Guide to Make New Friends at School
Friendship, companionship or attachment are the core elements of human connection. We all have been in a situation where we look for new friends at school. Whether it’s school, college or office, it is natural to bond with others. School is an educational institution but it’s also a place where kids form lifelong friendships and unbreakable bonds. Yes, academic learning is vital but it’s equally important to develop friendship. It plays an essential role in the development of personality and emotions. In today’s blog, we will throw light on the importance of friendship and some simple tips for making new friends at school.
Importance of Friendship in School
For many fortunate people, school friendships have stood the test of time. They are still able to find support and comfort in old-school friends. So the need and importance of creating friendship is immeasurable. So let’s learn why making new friends at school is important.
- Sense of Belongingness: Friendship is all about having a sense of belongingness. It gives a sense of purpose and becomes a source of comfort for all. It makes you feel engaged and involved.
- Social Skills: One of the biggest advantages of having a strong friendship during school time is the development of social skills. This skill especially comes in handy during adulthood as learning how to deal with conflicts is useful.
- Academic Learning: Many people may not realise this but friends are a motivating factor and a positive source. Friends can prove to be beneficial as they help improve the attitude towards academics.
- Stress Reduction: Friends are a source of comfort and relief. There are times when kids face negative emotions and stress. During such times, friends are of great help.
- Conflict Management: It is normal to have banter, unpleasantness, conflict and even fight with friends at school. Children learn how to manage conflict due to friendship.
- Encourage Empathy: It has been noted that friendship helps with the development of empathy. Their connections encourage kids to express their feelings more articulately.
- Teamwork: School friends are generally associated with teams. Whether it’s a sports team or an academic team, teamwork helps kids with critical thinking, problem-solving skills and communication.
Tips to Make Friends at School
Starting a new school can be very stressful for a child. They have to worry about new teachers, curriculum, extracurricular activities, social life and more. Among all these, making new friends can be challenging. This is why the below-mentioned friendship tips for starting a new school can be helpful
Start Simple
You can start simply by exchanging greetings like saying “Hi” or asking to borrow a pen or even directions around the new school. All these are safe conversation starters.
Appear Approachable
Being approachable is important. Make eye contact and read the body language of those you are trying to converse with.
Current Friends
Another easy way to make new friends is by approaching friends of your current friends. This makes the conversation friendlier and less awkward.
Common Interests
Look out for common interests such as favourite books, series, subjects, music, actors, movies and more. This will help you connect better.
Take the Lead
It’s best not to wait for others to start a conversion. Try taking the lead and strike up a conversation by yourself.
Open-Ended Questions
Instead of asking “yes” or “no” questions, try going with the open-ended questions. Ask something simple like what they think about the school or how their summer vacations went.
School Events
The school has many social events like Sports Day, Annual Day, debates, competitions, etc. As a new student looking to make friends, try to participate in such events.
TIPS | DESCRIPTION |
Start Simple | Say “Hi”, Borrow pen or ask for directions around school |
Being Approachable | Make eye contact, Smile, Positive body language |
Friends of Friends | Strike up a conversation with friends of your current friends |
Common Interests | Be an active listener and look for common interest topics like books, music, movies |
Taking Lead | Don’t wait for others and take the lead yourself |
Open-Ended Questions | Ask open-ended questions that do not have ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ answer |
School Events | Attend class matches, conferences, debates, competitions, Sports day |
Conclusion
If you or your kid is having trouble making new friends at school, do stress out. This experience can be overwhelming as one has to step out of their comfort zone. It’s also important to remember that the number is not important but how meaningful a bond is. At KR Mangalam World School, Best Private CBSE School in Panipat, we offer an encouraging environment so that children can nurture long-lasting connections. Visit our website and join us!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make new friends at school?
To make new friends, one has to step outside their comfort zone, look for common interests, engage in open-ended conversation and participate in class events.
How important are friends in school?
Friendships made during school time have proved to be not only invaluable but long-lasting too. They offer a sense of belongingness and help improve the social skills of an individual.
How to communicate with new friends?
While making new friends, one has to develop active learning skills too. This is because one can talk about common topics of interest. Ask open-ended questions so you can talk at great length.
How long does it take to make new friends at school?
Do not worry if it’s taking time to form new bonds. Friendship can’t be made overnight and it can take from several weeks to even months. Be patient!