Teaching Kids to Get Along with Others

Getting along with others is a necessary life skill. According to research from the Center for Creative Leadership, “Seventy-five percent of careers are derailed for reasons related to emotional competencies, including inability to handle interpersonal problems; unsatisfactory team leadership during times of difficulty or conflict; or inability to adapt to change or elicit trust.” The foundation for these skills begins at home with parents and siblings. Developing these skills does not happen instantly; children require time, maturity, specific instruction, and consistent practice in order to manage emotional responses and develop self-regulation.

Playtime

Playtime serves as the primary training ground for social emotional learning among young children. During play, children have opportunities to practice essential communication skills, learn how to share, cooperate with others, resolve conflicts, and build lasting friendships. Developing these life skills requires both time and intentional effort. Through play, children learn to become more socially aware of both themselves and others.

Identify Emotions

Within the context of play, children often act out emotions they are experiencing in daily life. It is important for adults to help children put words to their feelings by identifying emotions and using descriptive language—such as “frustrated” or “disappointed”—instead of simply “mad” or “sad.” Guiding children in problem-solving can help alleviate distress. When children are able to practice these strategies with supportive adults, they become better equipped to get along with others and handle future stressful situations.

Roleplay

For young children, roleplaying is a valuable strategy for adding effective tools to their social skills toolbox. Parents and caregivers can brainstorm potential situations that children may face at school, church, or other activities, and help them determine appropriate verbal responses or actions. For instance, if a child encounters bullying, practicing non-inflammatory responses can help reduce the bully’s power and give the child confidence in handling the situation.

The ability to self-regulate (express, control, and redirect emotions) plays a significant role in predicting future social success and academic performance. Children need appropriate social skills to form and maintain friendships. These skills are important for lifelong success.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10