Supporting Infant and Toddler Friendships
A strategy for helping young children connect with their peers and lay the foundation for developing friendships
As young children develop, they may begin to show interest in other children. When caregivers support early friendship skills, they help children understand how to interact with others in positive ways. As a result, young children can start to form positive connections and enjoy each other’s company.
Strategy Highlights
Acknowledge Positive Interactions
Drawing attention to the ways children positively interact makes it more likely that they will continue those behaviors.
Join In the Play
When we join children’s play, we can model friendships skills in the moment.
Support Teamwork
We can help children develop positive feelings about collaborating with others during shared experiences.
VIDEO 1
Supporting Infant and Toddler Friendships
In this lesson, we share tips for supporting young children to develop positive relationships with their peers.
ENHANCE THIS STRATEGY
Additional Resources
Peer Pairing
Intentionally partner toddlers and support shared experiences that develop friendship skills.
Friendship Opportunities Planning Form
Use this template to plan how you'll support friendship skills throughout the day.
Books about Friendship
Explore this top 10 collection of children’s books that celebrate friendships.
