Ever wonder how your child learns to make friends? It starts with simple social interactions! From giggles during group play to the first “best friend” moment, social connections in early childhood shape the way children interact with the world. At Aussie Kindies, we know that friendships, teamwork, and social confidence don’t just happen - they grow in a nurturing and engaging environment.
Social development is a key pillar of early childhood learning and plays a huge role in a child’s emotional and academic success. Our play-based learning approach, guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the Lifelong Learning Curriculum, ensures that every child at Aussie Kindies has the opportunity to develop the social skills they need to thrive.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- Why are friendships important for young children?
- How does social play help my child’s development?
- How play-based learning fosters friendships
- How Aussie Kindies supports social development through fun and engaging learning experiences
- 5 ways to help your child make friends
Want to learn more about our Lifelong Learning Curriculum? Click here.
Why Are Friendships Important for Young Children?
Social connectivity in early childhood is all about learning how to interact with others - from sharing toys to understanding emotions and working together as a team. These early relationships lay the foundation for communication, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills.
Key social skills for young children:
- Communication – Expressing thoughts, needs, and feelings.
- Empathy – Understanding and responding to the emotions of others.
- Collaboration – Engaging in cooperative play and teamwork.
- Confidence – Feeling secure in social interactions.
- Conflict resolution – Learning to solve problems and navigate disagreements.
Did you know? According to the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC), children with strong social skills by age five are 81% more likely to succeed in school and beyond.
Parents often ask: "How can I help my child build social confidence?" The best way is to provide opportunities for play, guided interactions, and positive role modeling.
How Does Social Play Help My Child’s Development?
Social development doesn’t happen overnight - it grows with time, experience, and nurturing environments like those at Aussie Kindies. Here’s how it progresses:
- 1 year - Recognises familiar faces, engages in simple games like peek-a-boo.
- 2 years - Begins parallel play (playing alongside other children), starts imitating actions.
- 3 years - Engages in imaginative play, begins taking turns and sharing.
- 4-5 years - Forms friendships, understands social rules, develops empathy.
By providing children with positive social experiences in their early years, we set them up for confident interactions as they grow.
5 Ways to Help Your Child Make Friends
At Aussie Kindies, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum and play-based learning approach help children develop their social skills in a way that’s fun, natural, and engaging.
1. Play-Based Learning: The Fun Way to Build Friendships
Children learn best through play, which is why our curriculum is designed around interactive and cooperative experiences. At Aussie Kindies, children:
- Learn to share and take turns in group play.
- Develop problem-solving skills through role-play and creative activities.
- Build confidence and teamwork through fun outdoor games and collaborative projects.
2. Educators as Social Coaches
Our highly trained educators help children navigate social situations by:
- Modeling positive interactions and encouraging kindness.
- Guiding problem-solving discussions when challenges arise.
- Encouraging inclusivity and helping children understand different perspectives.
3. Group Activities That Encourage Social Growth
We provide plenty of opportunities for children to build friendships, including:
- Storytime and discussions that encourage listening and communication.
- Music and movement games that bring children together.
- Team-based creative projects that promote cooperation.
4. Teaching Emotional Intelligence & Conflict Resolution
Understanding feelings and managing emotions are key social skills. At Aussie Kindies, we teach children to:
- Express emotions in healthy ways.
- Use words to solve conflicts instead of actions.
- Recognise and respect the feelings of others.
5. Celebrating Inclusion and Diversity
Aussie Kindies is a place where every child is valued. We celebrate different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives through:
- Multicultural storytelling and books.
- Festivals and special events that highlight diversity.
- Everyday learning moments that promote kindness and understanding.
Learn more about our inclusive learning philosophy here.
How Aussie Kindies Fosters Friendships and Social Growth
- Encourage playdates – Social interactions outside of child care reinforce social skills.
- Model friendly behaviors – Show kindness and cooperation in everyday interactions.
- Talk about emotions – Help children understand and express their feelings.
- Use role-playing – Practice social scenarios like sharing and taking turns.
- Give praise and encouragement – Celebrate positive social behaviors!
Discover more parenting tips here.
FAQs: Helping Parents Support Social Development at Home
Encourage playdates, join group activities, and model friendly interactions.
Help them build confidence with small, positive social interactions and reassure them that making friends takes time.
Look for signs like taking turns, expressing emotions, and showing interest in playing with peers.
Help Your Child Build Social Confidence
Social development is a huge part of early learning, and at Aussie Kindies, we make it fun, engaging, and confidence-boosting!
By incorporating play-based Learning, the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, we create an environment where children build friendships, practice teamwork, and grow into social superstars.
Ready to help your child build social confidence? Find your nearest Aussie Kindies, book a tour and see how Aussie Kindies fosters friendships and social growth!