7 year old dependent on older sibling

[j3ss]

My two eldest kids have always done lots together and get on well (mostly!) but it’s got to the point that my 7 yr old doesn’t want to do anything without him. He won’t go to clubs/social events without his brother or us there. His brother starts high school next year and is already growing up lots. I’d like the 7 year old to become more independent but he refuses to try anything new without him there so I don’t know what we can do to build up his confidence. He’s at quite a small school so his friendship group is already quite small. I’m just worried about him isolating himself as his brother moves onto the next stage in life. Any advice?

[BlueChampagne]

My DS2 was quite dependent on DS1, though he did do a couple of clubs on his own (though these were after school clubs with friends). I too was a little concerned when DS1 started secondary, but it hasn't been a problem at all. However, DS2 is at a reasonably large primary and has a good group of friends.

Is there any way you can cultivate some friends outside school? Or build stronger relationships with those at school?