To ask for advice on DS in yr1

[Lymmmummy]

Long story but my DS was separated from his closest friends at end of reception yr and placed in a new class in yr1. I have no objection to missing classes but unfortunately in this case lots of friends where kept together and he ended up being one of a few children without one of his besties. unfortunatley in this school there are no more class changes so this is effectively it.

Since this year he has mainly been happy but not as happy as previously but I was hoping it would all even itself out

Today we heard that 2 boys in the class took his money - this is my DS view of what happened and the view of another child who saw the incident - the other 2 boys view of the incident is that my DS "gave" them the money.

Anyway the class seems full of boys who are already in close friendship groups and/or boys where the parents are in a clique and not keen for others to join or boys who for whatever reason my son doesn't have much in common with

Anyone been in a similar situation and got any advice as to how to encourage some friendships - He is only 5 so appreciate I may come across as a bit silly but I am concerned that he may become isolated in future by not having closer friends in the class

Why did he have money in school? Was it all sorted out in the end? I hope he got it back.

Anyway...this is very common indeed OP and whilst it IS worrying, do remember that the first two years after reception are tricky socially for lots of children.

It may not have been perfect even had he remained with his original friends because groups constantly evolve in primary.

The best thing you can do is go on a playdate offensive as I call them. it works well....what happens is your son will be able to forge stronger connections with more boys as they have a shared experience...that of going to your home and playing.

If you're not sure who to invite, have a word with his teacher and she or he might be able to tell you who your son gets on with, who else hasn't yet slotted into a friendship group and who is just a "nice boy" who your DS will benefit from spending time with.