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For parents of children with disabilities, friendships for the child can sometimes be a source of worry and stress. PBS Parents offers some great ideas and helpful tips for parents to consider. Friendships are important for everyone – teaching children appropriate social skills and creating opportunities to practice them can make a big difference.

First Impressions– Saying hello to others, waving, smiling, and making eye contact are learned habits. For children who have difficulty with these, parents may need to help other children recognize their child’s interest. Additionally, when a child’s clothing and grooming fit in with his or her peers, this can reduce some of the initial barriers.

Identify Potential Friends– If a child is in child care or at school, the teacher can be a good resource for identifying other children who show an interest in the child. Parents of children with disabilities can reach out to the parents of other children who already indicate a willingness to interact.

Play Dates– Play dates should be intentional with careful thought towards the activities planned for the children. Parents should try to establish a space and use toys that their children are comfortable with and willing to share. Families can also meet at a public place like a museum, library, or park. Play dates can be relatively short; just one to two hours should keep things manageable.

Demonstration and Practice– Parents should purposefully model positive social skills and point them out to their child. Talking about what it means to be a good friend and praising good behavior can be powerful reinforcements. Parents should allow opportunities for children to use their skills with peers and to learn from others.

To read the whole article, get more ideas, and access resources, visit PBS Parents.