How to Help Your Child or Teen Make Friends in NYC
Despite being the most populated city in the country, it can sometimes feel close to impossible to find meaningful connections in Manhattan. Many parents, especially those who have neurodivergent children, find themselves asking, “How can I help my child or teen make friends?”
Here’s the good news: New York City’s diversity offers a wealth of resources to support both you and your child. By leveraging available opportunities, you can help foster social connections, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging for your child. Keep reading for some helpful strategies to consider!
Utilize School Support
School counselors and teachers can be valuable allies in helping your child integrate into their academic environment. Collaborate with them to identify the best ways to support your teen’s social and educational needs. Educators can facilitate social interactions through group projects, lunchtime gatherings, or social skills clubs.
Some schools also offer quiet rooms or similar accommodations where students can take a break before engaging in social situations, especially if they struggle with anxiety or are considered neurodiverse. Reaching out to school staff ensures you’re aware of these resources, allowing your child to take full advantage of them.
Build Social Confidence at Home
Encouragement plays a crucial role in developing social confidence. Reinforce positive social interactions—both big and small—and celebrate progress while maintaining patience and consistency. Praise and support can significantly boost your child’s confidence, helping them feel more prepared for daily interactions.
Engage Their Interests and Hobbies
Encourage your child to participate in clubs and activities that align with their personal interests. Whether through school or local organizations, these opportunities provide a natural setting for them to connect with peers who share similar passions, forming the foundation for meaningful friendships.
Find a Supportive Community
Connecting with other parents of teens and pre-teens can be invaluable. Parent support groups, even through completely online forums like Facebook, offer shared experiences, advice, and encouragement. Additionally, these networks can help you to connect your child with like-minded peers who are also seeking social opportunities.
Join Therapy and Social Skills Groups
Therapy and social skills groups provide a structured, judgment-free environment for teens to practice and develop social skills. These groups can be particularly beneficial for those who thrive in settings tailored to their unique needs.
If you think your teen could benefit from a group-therapy model, Collaborative Minds Psychotherapy is now offering an in-person group for tweens/teens on the Upper West Side of New York City. Our Friendship Lab program is a neurodiversity-affirming space designed to support social growth. To learn more about our group therapy or individual therapy services, click the button below or contact us for a free 15-minute consultation with our intake coordinator.
Supporting your teen is a journey, and with the right resources, you can help them navigate social interactions with confidence and ease.
