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Encourage them to share and take turns in playgrounds can help to make friends

Lead by example: an open, friendly, sociable grandparent (or parent!) encourages the same behaviour in a child. Back up with stories & books about sharing & you're grandchild/child is the kind of person other children want to be around.

Children can be cruel to one another, my grandaughter often comes home in tears from school because she has been ousted by the in girls at her school. I remember going through the same at school many years ago, it's petty playground stuff really but when your the one being pushed away it hurts. I always try to encourage her to seek out other girls who may be in similar situations with peer groups. She has a soft nature, a caring attitude, pretty sencitive, also an only child for 10 years, until recently when she became big sister to twin girls. Socially she wasn't involved with any groups until recently either( somthing that made me sad as I always felt it important especially as she was on her own so much ) the important thing for me to let her know she is wonderful, she is funny, she is bright, artistic, fun, helpful, genuine, kind, very kind. These are great attributes, I try to give her courage when it comes to approaching other children, that not all kids are going to treat her badly. When a child feels confident about themselves as a human being, it's easier for them to communicate with others. I love seeing my grandaughter interacting with other kids, she is not the pushy kind, and is generous when it comes to sharing things, she is not a taker, but a giver. I must say I have to persuade her to keep the pocket money I give her, because she has in the past poked it back in my purse, so I am teaching her it's ok to accept things people give you, because it gives them pleasure to see you happy. I wouldn't change her for the world. I belive one day she will do great good with the kind nature she has and will be one of life's earth Angels. We have had some fantastic outings over the years, we have shared many books, songs, cuddles cake making, I have taken her horse riding, swimming, theatre, and much more besides and always, always encourage her to be herself, rather to change to fit in. The right friends will come along ( and they have ) She is now actively involved in after school groups and she has some smashing friends. X

Take them to various places and groups,such as story time at the library.Encourage them to speak to people such as saying thank you to the bus driver or person serving you in a shop

Be a child with them, get down on all fours, go on the swings, play footie , play hide and seek, have other kids round , accept all and be friendly, talk to other people in the park, the bus, the street Have fun

Children learn behaviour from the adult roll models and they soak everything up like little sponges. If we are friendly and outgoing and positive about people we meet (no swearing at other drivers in the car!!) and as others have said explain to children about taking turns and sharing, read books to them about children's adventures and friendships, and engage them in discussion about what you're reading. If they tend to be shy give them opportunities to mix with other children in an environment where they feel confident and supported.

Children need to learn to share with others

Children need to learn to share

We love taking them outdoors

To be confident and actively ask other kids to play - be a leader!

I encourage them to look outside people their own age.

Not all their 'friends' are their own age. My daughters next door neighbours , in their 80's , would be delighted to know my 7 yr old grandson and 9 year old Grandaughter consider them to be friends .

If asked why the reasons are as diverse as Mr X can fix things, Mrs X makes the best cookies and their dog is my friend .

Cross generational friendships are as important as playground friendships.

My only grandchild(so far) is 3 weeks old so I am going to go by what my mum used to do for me - I had lots of different dolls, teddies, soft toys etc - and at night we used to set them all out on the bed, - ( they all had names which some I can remember) . Mum and I used to kiss them 'my friends' and say good night to each one individually after I had had my story. They would be there all night - I think it was my mum teaching me that friends are there for you if you need them. I will be doing it for Cameron when the time comes

sharing and listening are two very good starting points, our little Grandson mixes well with other children and hopefully this will continue.

Encourage them to make new friends when out & about - at the park, the swimming pool, or in the library. Show them it's good to be interested in others - when they ask the question 'what's that little boy doing?' - encourage them to ask that little boy directly, strike up a conversation & maybe a new friendship! It's just the same for adults really - show an interest & find some common ground! Show children that it's nice to be nice, when you're friendly, you smile & show an interest in others - they will warm to you, & want to be your friend

Wherever you are, whoever you see always be kind.

Make any excuse for a street party style event so that the local littluns can mingle (granted, that's a lot easier on a cul-de-sac!)

Taking them to places where there are lots of other children.

Spending time listening is important. Social skills should be taught at a very young age and manners are very important.

Sit close by and chat to the other children's parents, soon they will start to join in with you.

When I take my grandchildren to any play area I always join in with the play and encourage my grandchildren to interact with other children while they play. I see other grandparents or parents just standing back and watching but by joining in other children feel comfortable and able to chat to others

Talk about their day, ask them who they have been playing with and encourage them to spend more time getting to know those young people

Take them to toddler groups, playgrounds and the beach

Share your sweets

Try to be sociable yourself. Children learn from us

to just be thierselves, have a smile on thier face and be friendly and kind x