Me Again! Tell Me How to Increase My Kid's Social Life!

S.,

I'm a single Mom and it's tough to make friends when you've got SO much on your plate. Managing a personal life, and kids can be tough.

First, I would ask each kid what interests they have. Sports, dance, art or anything that can get them out of the house and mingling with peers. Don't assume that sticking them in an activity will be a cure all for their lack of socila life. Make sure it is something they WANT to do, otherwise you are going to have a WHOLE other issue to deal with.

Make some plans to take them places and plan family outings. Even if your friends don't have kids or have older kids include them in BBQ's and events. They just may need to see you participating to be encouraged to get out their and live a little.

Encourage them to be a part of things outside the house...find things that are age appropriate and ask if you can drive them and a friend. Suggesting things makes it much less like pushing them to do something.

I know after I split with my son's father, it was much easier to live in the house and just take care of things that needed to be done. But, getting out of the house with my son to play dates, the library and the market are super ways to jump start my day...

Good Luck.

Sports are the best an easiest way to make new friends. Ask them what they like baseball football soccer basketball almost all cities have open leagues and most offer scholorships if money is an issue. Also church is a great way to get kids involved. Boyscouts, girlscouts, how about the park & rec they offer classes in just about anything? Have them ask a friend or two over after school for a playdate once kids hang out out side of school it starts a new bond. Good luck!!

Hi S., I agree with everything MB said, sports, church youth group, scouts. In addition to that I want to emphasis that each child is different. I have one who is very social, and one that is content with going to scouts and being with his friends at school, but rarely has anyone over. They are both happy kids. So encourage your kids but also accept them if they are not as social as you think they should be. You sound like a great mom, wanting good things for your children. Best of luck to you all. Linda

Maybe you could look into afterschool clubs and organizations that are held at the school if transportation is an issue. When I was that age, I started on the swim team and that where my closest friend came from. Those are the people I still keep in touch with to this day!

Most churches have youth groups with plenty of available activities.

Check with parks and rec or your kids' school for after school programs.
If the kids are interested in scouts, you can be a leader and hold the meetings at your house. Arrange carpools for any outings the scouts would do.
Are they shy at school? If so, do some role playing at home about different situations and practice asking friends over until they are comfortable to do so. It is scary to put yourself out there, but very rewarding.