The First Two Seconds
Friendly greetings are an important part of friendship, but many kids need a little support learning how.
Hi there,
A simple "hi" can open the door to friendship. When kids greet others warmly, they're showing they're interested in connecting, and that makes all the difference.
But saying “hi” doesn't come naturally to every child.
Some kids look away or mumble because they feel shy or self-conscious. They’re focused on their own distress, but the message they’re sending to others is: I don’t like you, and I don’t want anything to do with you! That’s not how they feel, but their withdrawal can push others away.
The good news? Friendly greetings are a skill kids can learn.
In this short video, I share three simple steps that help children give warm, welcoming greetings:
Friendly greetings are one of the first steps in Reaching Out, the very first skill your child will learn in my workshop, Friendship Skills – For Kids.
The workshop teaches kids five practical friendship skills through short, engaging videos made just for ages 6 to 12. Your child can watch and learn real strategies they can use right away—whether they're naturally outgoing or tend to be more reserved.
If this kind of support feels helpful for your child, I invite you to learn more:
Warm wishes,
Eileen