Losing a friend can be challenging for any child, but for homeschooled children, it can be particularly difficult to navigate. Whether the friendship ended due to a rift, a change in personalities, or a friend moving away, we as parents play a crucial role in supporting our child through this experience.
First things first. You need to talk to your child. The damage that losing a friend does to a child can be incredibly hard to navigate, and as a parent this is an opportunity to open up some dialogue by modelling open communication. This issue, must be dealt with swiftly, and sensitively.
Actively listening to your child, and creating a safe space for them to express their hurt and disappointment is very important. How can you do this? Maintain eye contact, nod and show genuine interest in what your child is saying. Validate your child’s feelings, by saying, for example “I can see that you’re feeling hurt and confused because you lost your friend. It must be really tough for you”.
Help them understand that it’s normal for friendships to change over time, and that it’s okay to feel hurt and confused after losing a friend. Encourage them to express their emotions through writing, art, or talking to a trusted adult. Avoid dismissing or downplaying your child’s emotions.
You’ve listened, you’ve created a judgement free zone, you’ve been there. What now? Now it’s time let your kiddo process and grieve over what they have lost. When your child is ready, you can begin exploring alternative social opportunities. Look for local homeschooling groups, clubs, or extracurricular activities where your child can meet new peers who share similar interests. This can help them build new friendships and broaden their social circle.
Foster resilience and teach coping skills. Each child is unique, so it won’t be a one size fits all, you need to tailor your approach to their individual needs and preferences by encouraging your child to develop hobbies, engage in self-care activities, and pursue personal interests. This will help them find joy and fulfillment independently, boosting their confidence and resilience.
Remember, losing a friend is a part of life, and can be painful at any age. Share with your child that everyone, even you have suffered the loss of a friend. By providing a supportive environment and guiding your child through this challenging time, you can help them emerge stronger and ready to embrace new friendships.