Making New Friends

About

Summary: Grant shares tips on how to make new friends and enjoy their company.

Synopsis: Grant describes the excitement of meeting new people and making friends. He suggests starting with a smile, saying "Hello," and sharing names. Grant recommends friendly gestures like handshakes or high-fives, and engaging in games or activities while sharing and taking turns. He emphasizes the importance of listening and asking questions to get to know new friends better. Grant also addresses handling disagreements calmly and the joy of laughing together. Finally, he highlights the adventure of making new friends and appreciating their uniqueness.

Themes:  The story promotes themes of social skills, communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. It teaches children the importance of friendly greetings, active listening, sharing, and taking turns. The narrative also highlights the value of understanding and resolving disagreements, the joy of shared laughter, and the appreciation of new friendships.

Using Making New Friends in Session

Therapists can use "Making New Friends" to help children develop social skills and confidence in forming new relationships. Discussing Grant’s approach can teach children effective ways to introduce themselves, engage in friendly activities, and communicate with new friends. Role-playing scenarios based on the story can help children practice these skills. The story also provides a basis for discussing empathy, conflict resolution, and the value of diverse friendships.

Discussion Questions:
    1. How do you feel when you meet someone new?
    2. What are some ways you can start a conversation with a new friend?
    3. Why is it important to share and take turns when playing with new friends?
    4. How can you show that you are listening to your new friend?
    5. What can you do if you and your new friend disagree about something?
    6. Why is laughing together important in a friendship?
    7. Can you think of a time when you made a new friend? How did it happen?
    8. What makes each new friend you meet special and unique?