Making friends used to be as simple as sharing a snack or playing on the swings, but for today's children, it’s becoming increasingly challenging. A new study reveals that many Gen Alpha kids are facing difficulties in building friendships, with loneliness being a significant factor.
A survey by the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, which included 1,031 parents of kids aged 6 to 12, found that 20% of parents said their children have few or no friends, despite 90% of kids wanting to make more. Factors like shyness, social awkwardness, bullying, and the lack of opportunities to connect with peers are common barriers.
According to Sarah Clark, co-director of the Mott Poll, “Friendships are vital for children’s emotional well-being and social development.” Yet, many parents note that their kids struggle due to personality differences, anxiety, or limited chances to socialize.
Parents are stepping in to help, with 71% arranging playdates, encouraging extracurricular activities, and even allowing social media use for online connections. However, experts like Clark urge parents to strike a balance between guiding their children and letting them handle social situations on their own.
Interestingly, the survey also found that some parents prefer their children to befriend peers from similar religious or political backgrounds, which Clark warns could limit their ability to navigate diverse social environments in the future.
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