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?

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?