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Discover why making friends is essential for
children's emotional and social development and how to foster genuine
connections.
Did you know that childhood friendships can shape a child’s future? Join
us on an inspiring journey to understand how making friends helps children
become more confident, autonomous, and prepared for life!
Friendships are far
more than moments of fun in childhood; they are foundations for emotional,
social, and even cognitive development. When a child makes friends, they learn
to share, resolve conflicts, and build their own identity. These experiences
shape not only who they are today but who they will become in the future. This
article is an invitation for parents, educators, and everyone who cares about
children’s well-being to reflect on the importance of encouraging healthy
friendships. Let’s explore, step by step, how connections with friends help
children become more autonomous and confident, bringing benefits that echo
throughout their lives. To begin, it’s essential to understand that making
friends is not just about playing; it’s a profound learning opportunity where
children practice empathy, communication, and resilience.
Science confirms the
impact of friendships on child development. A 2023 study from Harvard
University showed that children with strong friendship bonds are 40% less
likely to develop anxiety and find it easier to cope with school challenges.
Think of Anne Frank’s story, whose friendships with other children, even in
such difficult circumstances, helped her find strength and hope. These
connections provide a safe space for children to express their emotions and
learn to navigate differences. However, not all children find it easy to make
friends, whether due to shyness or social barriers, which prompts us to
consider how we can help them build these bridges.
Motivational Quote: “A true friend is
someone who helps you become the best version of yourself.” – Anne Frank
Friendships are also
crucial for autonomy, as they teach children to make decisions and assert
themselves. When playing together, they negotiate rules, resolve conflicts, and
learn to balance their desires with those of others. A 2024 University of
Oxford study revealed that children who regularly participate in group
activities, such as play or sports, develop leadership skills 30% earlier than
those who spend more time alone. Imagine a child who, while organizing a game
at the playground, learns to listen to peers and propose solutions. These small
experiences build the confidence needed to tackle bigger challenges in the
future, like standing up for an idea or making important decisions.
Curiosity Box: Did You Know...?
Children with at least one close friend at school perform up to 20% better
academically, according to a 2023 University of Michigan study. Friendship is a
driver of success!
To support children in
this process, creating environments that foster interaction is essential. Here,
the “Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA)” by Antônio Carlos dos Santos
offer valuable tools. In his MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology,
Santos emphasizes that autonomy begins with an open mindset, followed by
practical actions and creative expression. In his book Principles of the
ThM-Theater Movement Technique, he proposes theatrical activities that
encourage children to work in groups, building confidence and social skills.
For example, a performance where children collaboratively create a story can
teach the importance of listening and respecting others, key foundations for
friendship.
Practical Tip: Organize an
afternoon of group play for your child, like a treasure hunt. Encourage
collaboration and, afterward, talk about how each child contributed to the
activity’s success. Small moments of connection strengthen bonds!
Children’s literature
can also be a powerful ally. The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection
teaches you to live better by Antônio Carlos dos Santos is a brilliant
example. In the ninth volume, Making Friends, the Little Witch teaches
the froglets that true friendship is honest, respectful, and free of judgment.
The story depicts a family of frogs facing a drying lagoon, learning to unite
and make friends to overcome challenges. As the Little Witch says: “Friendship
does not tolerate permissiveness or indulgence with mistakes. When a fault or
misstep occurs, a true friend steps in, warns, corrects, and guides back to the
right path.” This playful narrative helps children understand that true friends
support and grow together.
Inspiring Story: The Power of
Friendship
At age 10, a shy Elon Musk in South Africa found a friend who encouraged his
passion for technology. That connection was the first step toward becoming the
innovator we know today. A friendship can change the course of a life!
Friendships also teach
children the value of diversity. By interacting with peers from different
backgrounds, they learn to respect diverse opinions and cultures. Santos’ MBPT
(Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) methodology is a practical tool for this. In his
book Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater - 1,385 theater exercises and workshops,
he describes how puppets made from recycled materials can be used to tell
stories of inclusion. Imagine a child creating a puppet representing a friend
from another culture—this creative exercise reinforces empathy and acceptance.
A 2024 University of Cambridge study showed that children exposed to diverse
environments are 50% more likely to develop inclusive attitudes in adulthood.
Curiosity Box: Theater and
Connection
The MBPT methodology has already been used in thousands of Brazilian schools,
helping children create dolls that tell stories of friendship and diversity. A
bridge between art and emotion!
However, making
friends also brings challenges, such as dealing with conflicts or rejection.
These experiences, though tough, are opportunities for growth. Santos’ ThM
(Theater Movement) methodology, described in Dramaturgy: 555 exercises,
games, and workshops, offers activities that help children express their
emotions through theater, learning to resolve disagreements constructively. A
2023 Stanford University study showed that children who practice conflict
resolution with friends are 35% more likely to develop emotional resilience.
Teaching a child to say “I’m sorry” or to listen to the other side is a step
toward autonomy, as they learn to manage their emotions and relationships.
Practical Tip: When your child
faces a conflict with a friend, encourage them to express their feelings
through a drawing or short story. Then, discuss how to resolve the situation
together. Art opens doors to dialogue!
Friendships also have
a profound impact on children’s mental health. A 2024 University of Michigan
study revealed that children with close friends experience 30% lower stress
levels than those who feel isolated. Think of J.K. Rowling, who, as a child,
found support in a friend to overcome tough times, inspiring her to create
magical worlds like Harry Potter. Friends provide a safe space for
children to share joys and fears, building a support network that stays with
them for life. As parents and educators, we can foster these connections by
creating opportunities for children to interact, whether through clubs, sports,
or artistic activities.
Inspiring Story: Friends Who
Inspire
J.K. Rowling credits her childhood best friend for the support that helped her
overcome challenges and believe in her creativity. That friendship was the seed
for creating Hermione, Ron, and Harry—proof that friends can change the world!
Finally, it’s
important to remember that childhood friendships are seeds for a more
collaborative and humane future. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ methodologies show
us that by combining creativity, action, and reflection, we can help children
build genuine bonds. Whether through MAT, which teaches mindset change, ThM,
which promotes dialogue, or MBPT, which celebrates diversity, these tools inspire
us to create environments where children feel free to make friends. Imagine a
world where every child has a friend to share dreams and challenges—that’s the
world we can build. Start today by encouraging your child, student, or niece to
take the first step: a smile, a conversation, a game.
Motivational Quote: “Making friends is
planting seeds of hope for a stronger, united future.” – Antônio Carlos dos
Santos
This is the moment to
value friendships in childhood. They are not just part of growing up but the
foundation for an autonomous, confident, and meaningful life. Draw inspiration
from Anne, Elon, J.K., and the lessons of The Thousand Faces Little Witch
collection teaches you to live better. Talk to a child, organize a game, or
read a book together. The friendships they build today will be the bridges to
tomorrow. Why not start now?
Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br
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