1 . You can’t choose friends for your child, but you can help him learn to choose friends wisely.     1     Here are a few ways to help your child make friends.

Build your child's self-confidence.

When he succeeds or has made a great choice, tell him you are proud of him.     2    Your middle school student is going through many changes and may feel like he isn't “good enough”. Building his self-confidence will help him feel more confident and will make it easier for him to form healthy friendships.

    3    

Give him your full attention when he talks, and really listen to what he has to say.

Discuss the qualities in a friend with your child.

Discuss with your child the qualities that matter most, such as being reliable and kind, and making good choices when it comes to avoiding alcohol and cigarettes.

Get to know your child's friends.

    4     It’s more important to talk with them and find out what they like to do. Allow your child to invite his friends over and get to know them better.

    5    

After-school clubs and sports programs are good places for meeting new people. Be open to exploring different activities with your child to find something that he enjoys.