Friendship is a cornerstone of social development—and it begins earlier than you might think. In this course, you’ll explore how the concept of friendship evolves from toddlerhood through the early school years, and what it truly means to young children at different developmental stages.

We’ll look at the foundations of social connection, including sharing, empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution, and how these skills are built through everyday interactions. You’ll discover practical, research-based strategies for fostering positive peer relationships in the classroom, as well as ways to guide children in navigating disagreements and building inclusive play environments.

Through real-world examples and actionable tips, you’ll leave with the tools to create a supportive, nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to build meaningful friendships, strengthen their social skills, and develop the confidence to connect with others.