Your Questions About Positive Relationships, Answered

What do you do when your child is struggling to make friends, or causing drama in the ones they have? In this Q&A episode, Dr. Dave Anderson answers real questions from parents and caregivers about how to help kids build and maintain healthy relationships, from early childhood through the teen years.We cover:How to explain that not everyone will like you — and that’s okayWhat to do if your child doesn’t seem to have “real” friendshipsHow to support your child’s social life if you’re a shy parentHow to help a tween handle peer rejectionWhat to do when your teen gossips or ghosts their friendsHow to respond to “bossy” behavior in younger kidsWhy teen friendships can sometimes feel toxic — especially among girlsWhat to do when an older sibling is being unkindHow to recognize emotional dependence in friendshipsTips for supporting a child with ADHD who struggles sociallyWhether your child is 6 or 16, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you guide them toward strong, supportive friendships — and build the social-emotional skills they’ll use for life. Resources Mentioned:Friends & Socializing Resources for ParentsBeing a Good Friend – Hedgehog Land Episode — from our Emmy and Webby-nominated series for young kids, featuring music by Lake Street DiveSubmit a question for a future Q&A episodeBe sure to subscribe and check out last week’s main episode with Dr. Mandi Silverman: How Do I Help My Child or Teen Build Positive, Healthy Friendships?

Om Podcasten

Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health. Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode tackles a common parenting challenge — from anxiety to tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies backed by science. You’ll hear real talk, expert advice, and compassionate guidance from clinicians who work with kids every day. New episodes every other week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.