Friendship is one of the sweetest parts of early childhood — and also one of the trickiest to learn. Between ages four and six, children are just beginning to understand that others have feelings, needs, and perspectives different from their own. Learning to share, take turns, and show kindness doesn’t come naturally at first, but with gentle guidance, your child can develop the empathy and communication skills that make friendships blossom and last.

🌱 1. Model Friendly Behavior

Children learn how to be friends by watching the adults around them. When you greet others warmly, share, or take turns, your child absorbs these small acts of connection.

Simple, visible gestures of kindness become the foundation for empathy.

🎨 2. Practice Sharing in Play

Sharing feels hard at this age because children are still learning about ownership and patience. Use playtime as a gentle way to practice giving and waiting.

Consistent routines around sharing help children feel secure and fair.

🧩 3. Teach Turn-Taking with Fun

Games are a joyful way to build patience and teamwork. Board games, ball games, or even pretend play all reinforce the idea that everyone gets a chance.

• “It’s your turn to roll the dice — mine comes next.”
• “Let’s count how many turns we’ve had each.”

Predictable patterns teach fairness while keeping play light and fun.

💛 4. Name and Validate Feelings

When conflicts happen, help your child notice emotions — both theirs and their friend’s. Naming feelings builds empathy and emotional awareness.

Children learn that everyone’s feelings matter, not just their own.

🌼 5. Guide Gentle Apologies and Repair

A real apology teaches responsibility and kindness. Show how saying sorry is about caring, not blame.