You can’t choose your children’s friends, but here’s how you can help them manage five frustrating friendship pitfalls. If they squeeze too tightly, the friend will want to get away.”Encourage your children to befriend their friend’s friend. “The idea is to help them understand that (true) friendships are bidirectional.”Share the concept of a “hot and cold” friend, too. 4: Your child can’t let go of a grudgeHow parents can help: Two fifth grade girls came to my counseling office for help resolving a conflict. 5: Your child frequently fights with friendsHow parents can help: If your children are triggered, ask them what the incident means and why it’s happening.

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