Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS)

Navigating Friendships 

Friendships are an important part of every child's school experience. They provide opportunities for connection, belonging, and learning, while also helping children develop empathy, resilience, and confidence. Like any relationship, friendships can sometimes be challenging, and these moments are valuable opportunities for growth.

As mentioned on the previous page, at Whittlesea Primary School we use the principles of Friendology to help students build positive, healthy friendships. Friendology teaches children that friendships are something we can learn about and practise. Through age-appropriate discussions and activities, students develop skills such as including others, communicating respectfully, solving problems calmly, understanding different perspectives, and recognising the qualities of a good friend. 

Families play an important role in supporting these skills at home. Taking time to talk about friendships, listening without immediately solving problems, and encouraging children to consider how others may be feeling can help them develop confidence in navigating social situations. Reminding children that friendships naturally change and that disagreements can often be resolved respectfully helps build resilience and emotional wellbeing.

To reinforce the skills students are learning, Friendology posters have been installed around the school, including in our playground spaces. These serve as visual prompts, encouraging students to pause, reflect, and use positive friendship and problem-solving strategies when navigating social situations independently.

By working together, we can support our students to create kind, respectful, and meaningful friendships that help them feel connected, safe, and ready to learn.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone. Stay warm! ♡