Print the whole article here!
You are around people every day.
-
You see some people a lot:
-
Family
-
Friends
-
Co-workers
-
Some are very close to you:
-
Girlfriends and boyfriends
-
Husbands and wives
-
Partners
You know other people, too.
-
Some people are not as close to you:
-
Your doctor
-
The person who works at the bank
-
The person who lives next door
-
As you get to know people better, they may become your friends.
Why are friends important?
-
A friend is someone with whom you can:
-
Talk
-
Have fun
-
Share thoughts and feelings
-
Without friends, you may feel lonely or sad.
What do friends do for each other?
-
In a healthy friendship, people:
-
Talk and listen to each other
-
Respect each other
-
Work out problems or disagreements
Do you have a healthy friendship?
-
Do you like to spend time with your friend?
-
Do you feel safe with your friend?
-
Do you feel good when you’re with your friend?
-
If you said yes to all of these questions… you have a healthy friendship!
Do you have an unhealthy friendship?
-
Do you feel sad, angry, or scared around your friend?
-
Does your friend say mean things to you?
-
Do you feel you have to spend time with your friend?
-
If you said yes to any of these questions… you may not have a healthy friendship.
You can get sick or hurt in an unhealthy friendship.
-
If you think you have an unhealthy friendship, talk to:
-
Another friend you trust
-
A counselor
-
If a friend hits or hurts you tell someone you trust today!
Making New Friends
-
Some people are shy.
-
That makes it hard to make new friends.
-
Here are some ideas that can help you take the first step.
Step 1: What’s Going On in Your Town?
-
There are lots of places nearby where you can make new friends.
-
This worksheet will help you explore your community. Fill it out together with friends or your support staff.
Step 2: What do you like to do?
-
Make a list of things you like to do.
-
Ask someone who knows you well for their ideas, too.
-
Where do people go to do these things?
-
A place (like a video arcade or bowling alley)?
-
A club (like a train club, gardening club)?
-
That’s where you’ll find people who like the same things as you.
Step 3: Just go do it!
-
What will you try first? A club? A new place you haven’t been? A sports event?
-
Do you need support - like a ride or help filling out a form? Ask!
-
Do you want someone to go with you? Ask!
-
Now… just go do it!
Other Places to Meet People
-
Ask your support person if there are:
-
People First meetings in your area
-
Dances for people with disabilities at local Recreation Centers or ARCs
-
Activities at local Recreation Centers
-
Volunteer opportunities at local parks, theaters or museums
What if I meet someone I’d like to have as a friend?
-
Smile!
-
Say your name and ask for theirs.
-
Talk about something you enjoy:
-
“This is a great baseball game.”
-
“Have you seen this movie before?”
-
Ask questions about the person.
-
Before you know it, you have a new friend!
Remember:
-
Everyone needs friends
-
Everyone deserves healthy friendships
-
If your friendship is unhealthy, talk to someone you trust
-
If you are being hurt call someone today
-
Making new friends is as easy as 1,2,3