How can I help my toddler to make friends?

Once your baby has graduated to being a toddler, walking, and learning to talk, you’ll probably notice that he or she is much more interested in other people, including children of his or her age.

However, while your child is curious, they haven’t yet made the connection that other children are people too. Therefore, if you notice your child poking, prodding or pushing another child, don’t worry that he or she is anti social – it’s just that your child is still completely self-absorbed!

The best way to make sure that your child makes friends, whether it’s now or in the future, is to get them involved with children of a similar age.

If your child is not yet in day-care or crèche, then arrange for outings with families that have kids your child’s age. Go to parks, museums and zoos, where all the children can run around freely, and don’t force the issue. For a while, your child will play in parallel with other kids, but eventually, he or she will learn that having friends is a lot of fun!