Friendships are an essential part of childhood, and as children navigate their primary school years, they experience both the joys of friendship and the challenges of conflict. Learning how to manage disagreements is a natural and important part of developing social and emotional skills.
It is normal for children to experience conflict from time to time. These moments help them understand what works in friendships and what doesn’t. However, children can sometimes confuse everyday disagreements with bullying. Understanding the difference is crucial:
When children encounter conflict, it presents a valuable teaching opportunity. Young children may need guidance and emotional support, while older students can often navigate conflicts independently. The key is to provide support without immediately stepping in to solve the issue for them.
One of the most effective ways to offer emotional support is through reflective listening. This involves truly hearing what your child is saying, identifying the emotions behind their words, and reflecting them back. For example: “It sounds like you felt really frustrated when you didn’t get to play your game.” This approach validates their feelings and encourages problem-solving.
Through conflict, children learn valuable life skills, including:
By guiding children through these moments with patience and understanding, we help them build resilience and essential social skills that will serve them well throughout life.
