Let’s break it down: making friends isn’t rocket science, and it doesn’t take a “magic trick.” Think of it like a recipe—just with zero cleanup and no weird veggies. You’ve got the ingredients, now it’s time to mix ‘em up and see what happens. Here’s your recipe for creating friendships that actually stick.
1. Start with a Dash of Kindness 👋
Starting with kindness is like throwing salt in the pasta water—it just makes everything better. Give a simple nod, a “Hey, I like your shoes,” or share a snack. Ever notice how a little kindness can break the ice? People notice that stuff. Be the one to throw out the good vibes. A simple smile or compliment can go a long way. Just think about how you feel when someone compliments you!
2. Keep it Real: Be Honest and Open 🗣️
Honesty? It’s the backbone of any solid friendship. It’s like saying, “Hey, you can be you around me, no fake filters needed.” Share what you’re actually into, even if it’s not what everyone else likes. This is what makes friends go, “Alright, I can trust this person.”
3. Find the Common Ground 🍕
What are you into? Video games? Baseball? Pizza-eating contests? Find that thing that clicks and run with it. This shared stuff is like glue for friends—it’s what turns random moments into inside jokes. Ask your friend what they’re into or talk about your favorite band, movie, or hobby. Watch how fast it connects.!
4. Keep Your Word 💯
If you say you’re going to do something, do it. No one likes it when someone is a flake. Whether you promised to bring snacks or keep something private, showing up when it counts tells people you’re serious about the friendship. It’s like building trust one small promise at a time.
5. Be All-In When They’re Talking 👂
This one’s huge. When a friend’s talking about what’s on their mind, give them your focus—no phones, no distractions. You don’t need to have all the answers or come up with big advice. Just be there. Listening and backing them up is the friend move that really counts.
6. Respect Their Limits ✋
Everyone has their own comfort zones, quirks, limits and preferences. Some people like to talk, some don’t. Some are into big groups, others aren’t. Respecting these things says, “I get you.” Let your friends know it’s cool for them to do their thing while you do yours. Friendships aren’t about changing people; it’s about accepting them.
7. Share the Laughs 😂
Sometimes the best part of being friends is just cracking up together. Tell a funny story or drop a joke, and if something embarrassing happens, don’t be afraid to laugh it off. Humor’s like glue—friends who laugh together hang together.
Putting It All Together 🍲
Friendship isn’t about some big show—it’s the small stuff you do every day. Grab lunch together, invite someone into the game, or just say “hey.” Real connections happen when you’re just being real. Don’t sit around waiting for someone else to make a move; put yourself out there and see what happens.
Conversation Starters for Making and Keeping Friends
What to say when you want to introduce yourself:
“Hi! I’m ………. What’s your name?”
“Hi there! I’m ………. Nice to meet you!”
What to say when you want to compliment someone:
“Hey, I love your ……….! It’s really cool!”
“That was really awesome!”
What to say when you’re trying to make small talk:
“What did you do over the weekend?”
“Have you seen any good movies or shows lately?”
“What’s your favorite game to play?”
“So what’s your favorite thing to do after school?”
“What do you like to do for fun?”
“Do you have any pets?”
“What’s your favorite book?”
“Do you play any sports?”
“What’s your favorite food?”
“What kind of music do you like?”
What to say when you want to invite someone to join you:
“I’m going to ………. Want to come along?”
“Would you like to sit with me for lunch?”
“We’re about to start a game of ………. Want to join us?”
What to say when you want to share a funny moment:
“You won’t believe what happened ……….”
“I heard this really funny joke! Want to hear it?”
“I saw the funniest video. Do you want to see it?”
Ready to have some fun?
Spin the wheel and answer over 25 questions that help you make awesome connections! This is a super fun interactive game and social emotional lesson to teach kids about friendship. This digital spinner is available exclusively for members of the WholeHearted Hub!
*Spinner will be available to download after November 26th, 2024.
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