Carsone KIDS
Social Skills / Friends
Social skills help children build relationships, communicate with others, and participate in everyday activities at home, school, and in the community. Like any other skill, social skills develop over time through play, practice, and experiences with others. Every child develops these skills at their own pace, so try not to compare your child to others. Some children make friends easily, while others need more time and support. Small, everyday interactions can make a big difference in helping your child build confidence and meaningful relationships.
Please note: The advice provided here is not a substitute for medical care.
Please seek the advice of your child's medical team before implementing any of the strategies discussed here.
Social Skills/Friends
Printable PDF Below
01
Infants
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Babies begin developing social skills from birth through interactions with the people who care for them
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Babies learn by watching faces and hearing voices during everyday routines
Make it fun!
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Smile, laugh, and make silly faces
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Play peek-a-boo
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Read simple picture books
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Copy your baby's sounds and facial expressions
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Wave "hello" and "goodbye" during daily routines
03
Little Kids
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Little kids begin developing friendships and enjoy playing together with other children
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They continue learning how to share, solve simple problems, express feelings, and take turns
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Pretend play helps children practice communication, creativity, and understanding different perspectives
Make it fun!
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Role-play common social situations
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Practice introducing yourself
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Play simple board games that require turn-taking
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Talk about emotions during story time
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Encourage imaginative play with siblings or friends
02
Toddlers
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Toddlers are learning to communicate their wants and needs while beginning to interact with other children
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Parallel play (playing beside another child) is a normal part of development at this age
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Toddlers are beginning to practice sharing, taking turns, and following simple directions
Make it fun!
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Practice saying "please" and "thank you"
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Take turns rolling a ball or building with blocks
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Read books about feelings and friendship
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Practice waving, greeting family members, and saying goodbye
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Encourage pretend play with dolls or stuffed animals
04
Big Kids
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Big kids continue building friendships while learning more complex communication and problem-solving skills
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They benefit from opportunities to practice teamwork, flexible thinking, and resolving disagreements respectfully
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Positive social experiences help build confidence and independence
Make it fun!
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Play board games
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Practice starting conversations
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Encourage your child to invite a friend to play
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Role-play solving disagreements
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Give your child opportunities to order food, ask for help, or greet others in the community
05
Teenagers
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Teenagers continue developing communication, self-advocacy, empathy, and relationship skills
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As independence grows, social participation becomes increasingly important at school, work, and in the community
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Supportive conversations and opportunities to problem-solve together can help teens build confidence and prepare for adulthood
Make it fun!
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Encourage participation in clubs, sports, or volunteer activities
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Talk about healthy friendships and respectful communication
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Practice problem-solving real-life situations together
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Encourage your teen to make phone calls, schedule appointments, or order meals independently