What was y7 like socially for your dd?

[RiceAndSomeMoreRice]

My PFB will be starting year 7 in September. What will make it easier for her to make friends? In group dynamics dd tends to be a bit quiet but also fun loving, loyal and kind. She is not super assertive socially and often at the edges of friendship groups but being with a group of friends is very important to her and she ribs along well usually. What was year 7 like for your dd? What are the things that can help her in terms of attitude or behaviour? She will only know 3 other children at her new senior school.

Following with interest

It’s Y8 that’s been more challenging for my DD, Y7 there seemed to be more fluidity with the class with everyone doing things together whereas there has been definite groupings this year and she has fallen a bit by the way side after being ditched by the group she had got in with. She’s got her old primary friends but because she branched out from them in Y7 they have found different groups so she is a bit of a nomad currently and finds it hard not to have a BFF. I’ve been surprised at the ruthlessness and how quickly it can go from being best mates with a group to persona non grata 😔

However, she is managing it surprisingly well, and is throwing herself into extra curriculars and spending time with a wider range of people as a result. I think joining clubs in and out of school is really positive as it provides spaces to get to know people and in worse times, something to do if you’re feeling lonely.

We made the mistake on cutting down a lot of outside of school clubs in Y7 to help her adjust to a busier schedule and homework but I now wish we hadn’t. Some things had run their course (eg guides) but it would have been good to keep a bigger range in so I’d recommend that.

Ive read good advice on other threads about keeping a wide range of people / friend in your network, not gossiping or talking about others behind their back (easier said than done I know) and not placing too much emphasis on having a best friend.

Im really hoping Y9 is a bit better for my DD tbh!