Every young child needs to learn how to make friends. This is an important social skill that your child will use throughout his or her life, from making friends at school to developing relationships as an adult. At first, it seems easy for your child to make friends, but as they get older, they’ll start to notice that friendship isn’t just about playing with toys together. Give your child a head start in the friendship department by teaching about how to make and keep friends. Here are a few books you can use to help teach a lesson on friendship.
“Image courtesy of AKARAKINGDOMS / FreeDigitalPhotos.net”.
Franklin’s New Friend ~Paulette Bourgeois
Franklin is a turtle that many young kids know and love. Although Franklin already has a group of friends he hangs out with, there’s a new “kid” in town that Franklin doesn’t know. At first, Franklin is afraid of this new friend, but after some time, he discovers that they have a lot in common! This story is great for teaching your young child how to make new friends, even if it’s a little scary at first.
Frog and Toad Are Friends ~Arnold Lobel
A lot of young adults have grown up reading about Frog and Toad. Despite its age, this timeless classic is still relevant today, teaching young children about the characteristics that make good friends. Have fun with your child reading the adventures of Frog and Toad. After reading the story, talk with your child about what Frog did for Toad and what Toad did for Frog. Use the book on friendship to teach your child that being a good friend also means giving, not just taking.
The Berenstain Bears and the Trouble with Friends ~Stan Berenstain
Sometimes friends are just plain trouble. Sister Bear finds this out for herself in this Berenstain Bears book. In this book, Sister Bear meets a new friend and they enjoy each other’s company. However after awhile, Sister Bear and her new friend start fighting. In order for these two friends to get along, they need to learn how to give in and not always be right. This is a great talking point for your young child because friendship is about giving and taking.
Just My Friend & Me ~Mercer Mayer
Little Critter is back and ready to make friends! In this story by Mercer Mayer, Little Critter has an afternoon play date with a friend. Instead of being fun, this play date has a few disasters. Despite the bad, these two characters remain friends. If you want to teach your young child about the difficulties of friendship, this is the book to read. This story helps your child understand that a friend can still be a friend after a fight.