Jan/Feb 2025 ~ As parents, you’ve likely observed how crucial friendships are to your child’s happiness and development. Research shows that peer relationships are fundamental to children’s social, emotional, and academic well-being. When children feel included by peers, it boosts their sense of belonging and security, both of which are important for thriving in school and beyond. Research also indicates that social connectedness in childhood has been linked to better mental health outcomes later in life, even outweighing academic achievements in its long-term impact.
