Ask Margaret - My Kid Doesn't Want to Spend Time With Friends
b'As parents, the thing we want most is for our children to be happy. When we see one of our kids spending a lot of time alone, and struggling with friendship,s it\'s natural to worry. But it\'s also important to resist the urge to swoop in and attempt to solve those problems.\\nIf a child seems depressed or extremely isolated, it is time to involve a therapist. But if a kid is going through a spell where they are struggling in more typical ways\\u2013 especially in the middle or high school years\\u2013 try to remember:\\n\\nto keep your own emotions out of it. Don\'t dive in to your own reactivity.\\n\\nnot to ask a ton of questions, or offer "helpful observations" which might make your struggling kid feel singled out.\\n\\nto set your kid up for success by being a safe space for them to share information. Make family meal times and outings a non-negotiable routine. They\'re an opportunity for you to share your perspective and advice about friendships in general without putting your kid in the hot seat.\\n\\n\\nEspecially in times of turmoil, be the island of safety from which your kids can navigate the rough waters of growing up. All kids will face tough times in their friendships, but they need our grown-up guidance more than they need us to take control.\\nMargaret quotes this article in this episode:\\nBarb Steinberg for Your Teen Mag: My Teenage Daughter Has No Friends\\n\\nSpecial thanks to our "Question of the Week" sponsor: \\nJane.com\\xa0is a boutique marketplace featuring the latest in women\\u2019s fashion, accessories, home decor, children\\u2019s clothing, and more. By shopping at\\xa0jane.com, you support small businesses, 1500 of which are women-owned. And you will not believe the prices!\\xa0Visit\\xa0jane.com/laughing.\\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices'