Making New Friends and Feeling at Home in Your Classroom
By Elizabeth Hurtado-Lafont Springdale Public Library
August is here, and you know what that means: new teachers, new notebooks and maybe even new classmates! While it’ s exciting to start a new school year, it can also feel a little weird walking into a classroom where not everyone is familiar. But guess what? You’ re not alone, and making new friends is easier than you think! Here are some fun and simple ways to feel right at home and make awesome new friends this school year:
Say“ Hi”( Yes, that’ s it!) It might sound super simple, but just saying“ Hi” with a smile is one of the best ways to start a friendship. You never know, maybe the person next to you is also hoping someone says hi to them.
Look for Friendship Clues
Pay attention to what others are doing or wearing. Does someone have a backpack with your favorite cartoon? Are they reading a book you love? That’ s your chance to say,“ I like that too!” That’ s how connections start!
Be a Joiner, not a Watcher At recess or in class activities, if you see a group playing a game or working on something cool, ask,“ Can I join?” Most kids will say yes! And if you notice someone
sitting alone, invite them to join you. That’ s true friendship magic.
Share Something Small
Friendship isn’ t just about talking; it can be about sharing. A joke, a crayon, a seat at your table or a smile goes a long way. These tiny actions make others feel welcome and show that you’ re a kind and thoughtful person.
Practice Friendly Phrases Here are some awesome one-liners you can use:
•“ Want to sit together at lunch?”
•“ What do you like to do after school?”
•“ That’ s a cool water bottle! Where did you get it?”
Make Your Classroom Feel Like Home Decorate your desk or locker with something that makes you smile, like a drawing, a sticker or a photo of your pet. Feeling comfy in your space helps you feel more relaxed and ready to meet new people.
Remember: Everyone Feels Nervous Sometimes
Even the most confident-looking kids might be feeling a little shy. By being brave, kind and curious, you can help yourself and others feel like they belong. You don’ t have to be best friends with everyone, but being friendly makes school a fun and happy place for all. So go ahead: be brave, be kind, and say“ Hi!” You just might make a new friend today.
4 • AUGUST 2025 • www. OfficialKidsMag. com