When Friendships Get Hard: Helping Your Kids Love Others

Friendships in elementary school can be amazing one day and heartbreaking the next. "They didn't include me." "He made fun of me at lunch." "She said I couldn't sit with them." If you've heard any of these, you're not alone — and neither is your child.

These moments matter, because this is where kids begin to build a biblical view of relationships. It's where you get to lead, not just with advice, but with truth. Jesus said, A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (John 13:34-35).

That kind of love isn't always natural for kids — or adults. It's a skill. And it starts at home. Here are three ways to help your child love others well, even when it's hard.

Help Them Name What They're Feeling

Instead of jumping to solutions, start by saying, "That hurt, didn't it?" Naming emotions helps kids feel understood and builds the emotional self-awareness that's key to healthy relationships.

Teach Them to See Others Through God's Eyes

Hurting people often hurt people. Ask your child, "What do you think they might be going through?" Teaching empathy helps them extend grace instead of judgment. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18). That starts with this perspective.

Practice Love in Action

Challenge your child to do one kind thing this week for someone they don't normally play with — a compliment, a note, even a prayer. Love is a verb, and your child can practice it daily.

Every struggle your child faces is an opportunity to point them back to Jesus, the ultimate model of love, grace, and truth. You've got what it takes — and we're walking with you.

For more encouragement on raising kids in faith, explore our Kids resources.