Childhood friendships can sometimes last a lifetime. Knowing how to relate to others and which people will a have a positive impact on their lives is something children rely on their parents to teach them. One way parents can do this is by hosting play dates at their homes.

Play dates are a great way to watch how your child interacts with others. It helps to make an effort to meet their friends’ parents. This will give you some insight into their family dynamics and enables you to teach your child how to make the right choices in friendships.

It’s the parents role to help their child learn values and morals and to recognize those traits in the friends they make. Let your child know that these things are important to you and values like honesty are necessary in a good friendship.

Recently, my daughter confided in me that a new friend she had made wanted her to lie to me about a trip they were planning on taking. My daughter told me that she didn’t feel right about lying to me but her friend was insisting on it. She said this made her uncomfortable.

Later that day, my daughter and I discussed what qualities to look for in a friend, like honesty.

I was gratified to learn that she had decided to end the friendship. She said she didn’t want a friend who would make such demands on her and put her in an awkward position.

Parents should take into consideration that every child is different. Some like to socialize in large groups and make friends easily. Others prefer more intimate relationships with a small group of friends.

Find out how your child feels about their friends and friendship in general. By staying involved you will help empower your child to make the right decisions and stay true to their values.