Friends are important to children. Research shows that children who have no friends can suffer from difficulties later in life. Friendship provides children with more than just fun. In making friends，children learn how to get in touch with others and solve problems. Having friends even does good to children for they can help each other during class.
If the parents are concerned about whether their children make many friends, they need to understand the steps children take in building friendships. First of all, be a friend to your child. Good friendships start at home. Children begin to develop the necessary ability to go out and meet others through getting along with their parents.
Teach children how to solve conflicts(争端). Being able to work out conflicts is an important skill in getting along with others. If parents know the children have a conflict, let them work it out on their own and help if necessary.
Parents should try to give children chances to practice staying together. Having children play games requires cooperation. For example, races are fun and provide plenty of practice in teamwork. Encourage children to show thanks to others. The parents can encourage children to do this by setting the example for them.
