New school

[summerdays12345]

My son has just started reception, his ‘best friend’ from the beginning of term now has a new best friend. I have encouraged him to play with others which he says he will but he’s quite shy. I assume this shift in friendship will happen many times. Any advice on how to help my son?

Oh bless him, its all very fluid. We're only a year on and a new child joined the class in June and became my childs "best friend" that week. I'd encourage a wide group at this age as they're very young to be stuck to a bff for 7 years.

Very normal! He'll have a new 'best' friend most weeks. Just keep reminding him that every child in his class (and beyond) can be his friend and it's good to play with different children.

Personally I discourage the use of the term 'best friend' in my Reception class as I feel it does cause sadness/anxiety for other children when their previous 'best friend' chooses someone new to take on that role. I just keep reminding them we're all friends and it's good to have lots of friends. If I was you, I'd keep reiterating that message to him.