Podcast

Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Friendship Advice for Kids (K-8)

Education for Kids, Kids & Family

Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic is a weekly, 5-min. podcast for children about making and keeping friends. Each episode features an audio recording of a question about friendship from a kid (gr. K-8) plus a practical and thought-provoking answer from Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD, (aka Dr. Friendtastic,) an author and clinical psychologist based in Princeton, NJ. For transcripts and discussion questions: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast. To submit a question: https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit. For parent resources: https://EileenKennedyMoore.com

https://drfriendtastic.substack.com

Education for Kids chart
#80
Episodes
181
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
7 min
On air since
2023
Latest episode
3 days ago

Episodes

181 episodes, newest first

  1. Friend puts herself down (Sofia, Age 12) | 166

    Episode 166

    Show notes

    Ep. 166 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: True and false humility | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What are some reasons why kids might say negative things about themselves?

    - How could it hurt a friendship if someone keeps putting themselves down?

    - What does “fishing for compliments” mean? Why is it NOT a good idea?

    - If you were feeling uncertain or unconfident about yourself and wanted some reassurance from a friend, what could you say to ask for that reassurance?

    - If a friend criticizes themselves, how could you figure out if it’s just temporary upset, a bad habit, or a serious problem? How would you respond to each of these?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 92 - What to say when a friend is feeling down (Mason. Age 13)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep92-mason-age-13-what-to-say-when-a-friend-feels-down

    Ep. 50 - A common belief that blocks friendship

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep50-magnet-myth

    Ep. 53 - How to stay calm when someone is bragging (Lillian, Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/lillian-age-11-how-to-stay-calm-when

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  2. What scares you? (Katie, Age 8)

    Show notes

    Re-release of Ep. 108 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Strategies for facing fears | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at learn.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    – What were you afraid of when you were younger but aren't afraid of now? How did you become unafraid of that?

    – Think of a time when you felt anxious in a social situation. What thoughts were going through your mind (i.e., what were you afraid might happen)? How did you handle the situation?

    – Dr. Friendtastic said, "Feeling anxious can lead them to avoid social situations, but that guarantees they're not going to build the friendships they want." How could you explain that in your own words?

    – There are two main ways to cope with anxiety: Jump right in or go in toe-by-toe. Which do you generally prefer and why?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 95 - Handling embarrassing moments (Sara, Age 7)

    Ep. 112 - How to Show Openness to Friendship

    Ep. 72 - Making friends in a new school (Nora, Age 8)

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  3. Not picked to play on team (Charlie, Age 9)

    Show notes

    Re-release of Ep. 125 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Adding to the fun | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at learn.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    – What are some ways to pick teams that are fair and kind to everyone?

    – Why is it sometimes hard for kids to be a good sport?

    – How do you decide who to play with at recess? (Hint: What might make you choose to try to join one group of kids but not another?)

    – Have you ever "started the fun" at recess? If so, what did you do? If not, what fun game or activity could you try to start with other kids?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 124 - How to Join Kids Playing (Amelia, Age 8)

    Ep. 98 - How to join a group when not everyone wants you in (Jessica, Age 9)

    Ep. 7 – Emma, Age 11: Friend is a poor sport

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  4. Best friend doesn’t want to play with her! (Hazel, Age 6.5) | 165

    Episode 145

    Show notes

    Ep. 165 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Smoothing over friction in friendship | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What does friction mean? Why is it always part of friendship?

    - What do you expect from a close friend (versus a stranger)? What could you do if a friend doesn’t meet those expectations?

    - When (not if) a friend does something you don’t like, why is it NOT helpful to assume that means they are a mean and terrible friend?

    - Why is it not a good idea to insist that a friend always has to play only with you? (Hint: How might that make the friend feel?)

    = How could caring about a friend help smooth out friction between the two of you?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 143 - Friend won’d play the game he likes (Akiva, Age 5)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep143-friends-wont-play-the-game-he-likes-akiva-age-5

    Ep. 127 - Friend wants space (Sloane, Age 6)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep127-friend-wants-space-sloane-age-6

    Ep. 5 - Friend doesn’t do what I want (Edith, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-episode-af3

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  5. What do we owe people who are not our friends? | 164

    Episode 164

    Show notes

    Ep. 164 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Avoiding empathy blindspots | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Sometimes kids think they only have to be kind to people they know and like. What could you say to argue against that idea?

    - What do you expect from a close friend? What do you expect from someone who is not your friend? How and why are these expectations different?

    - Why would it be unkind to have a party and invite everyone in a group except one person? What could you do instead?

    - What is an empathy blindspot?

    - How might being mean to someone end up hurting you?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 154 - Friends say she’s bossy, but they’re bossy (Lola, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/friends-say-shes-bossy-but-theyre

    Ep. 141 - Can we be friends with anyone? (Michael, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep141-can-we-be-friends-with-anyone-michael-age9

    Ep. 71 - Is she a friend or not? (Tali, Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep71-tali-age-11-is-she-a-friend-or-not

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  6. Is her friend lying?! (Nova, Age 7) | 163

    Episode 163

    Show notes

    Ep. 163 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Why friends lie and what to do about it | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Why is it sometimes hard for kids to tell the truth? (Hint: What might they be afraid could happen if they tell the truth?)

    - What’s the difference between lying and saying something that’s not true? (Hint: What are some examples of statements that are not true but also not a lie?)

    - How might telling lies hurt a friendship?

    - Do you think telling a lie can ever be a kind thing to do? Why or why not?

    - Why is it not a good idea to accuse a friend of being a liar?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 140 - Friend lies and boasts (Martha, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep140-friend-lies-and-boasts-martha-age-9

    Ep. 20 - Lying friend (Anna, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-20-anna

    Ep. 115 - Her lies hurt her friendship (Sofia, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep115-her-lies-hurt-her-friendships-sofia-age8

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  7. How to deal with friendship drama (Serena, Age 11) | 162

    Episode 162

    Show notes

    Ep. 162 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Prevent conflict from exploding into drama | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What’s the difference between friendship drama versus conflict?

    - Why do you think some people get involved in more friendship drama than others?

    - What are some ways to prevent conflict from turning into drama?

    - Dr. Friendtastic suggests avoiding saying “You always…”, or “You never…” or “You think…” or “You’re just trying to…” Why are these comments unhelpful? (Hint: How would your friend be likely to respond if you said them?)

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 91 - Arguments with a friend (Kenna & Scarlett, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep91-kenna-and-scarlett-age-8-arguments-with-a-friend

    Ep. 155 - Friend is jealous and possessive (Miranda, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep155-friend-is-jealous-and-possessive-miranda-age8

    Ep. 59 - Get rid of toxic friends? (Jessie, Age 13)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep59-jessie-age-13

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  8. He doesn’t want to be friends with someone (Julian, Age 8) | 161

    Episode 161

    Show notes

    Ep. 161 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Is there a kind way to reject someone? | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - How do you decide whether to share your opinion or keep it to yourself?

    - Have you ever been in a situation where someone wanted to be friends with you, but you weren’t interested in being friends with them? How did you handle it?

    - Have you ever had someone reject your efforts to be friends with them or just not like you as much as you like them? How did they let you know? How do you wish they’d let you know? How did you respond?

    - Dr. Friendtastic said, “Everyone has a right to be treated with kindness and respect.” What does that mean you should do with people who are not your friends?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 141 - Can we be friends with anyone? (Michael, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep141-can-we-be-friends-with-anyone-michael-age9

    Ep. 129 - Kindest way to break up with a friend (Audrey, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep129-kindest-way-to-break-up-with-a-friend-audrey-age-9

    Ep. 12 - Get rid of toxic friends? (Jessie, Age 13)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep59-jessie-age-13

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  9. How to say no to a friend without feeling bad (Blaire, Age 12)

    Show notes

    Re-release of Ep. 55 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Saying no can save a friendship | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Think of a time you had to say no to a friend. What happened? How hard or easy was it for you to say no? How did your friend react?

    - Why is it important to say no to friends sometimes? How can saying no help a friendship? How can NOT saying no sometimes hurt a friendship?

    - Why do you think kids are sometimes nervous or uncomfortable about saying no to a friend?

    - What could you say if a friend is disappointed or annoyed when you say no?

    - When is it okay to say yes to a friend, even if it’s not exactly what you want?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 154 - Friends say she’s bossy, but they’re bossy (Lola, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/friends-say-shes-bossy-but-theyre

    Ep. 109 - What does it mean to be yourself? (Charlotte, Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep109-what-does-it-mean-to-be-true-to-self-charlotte-age11

    Ep. 79 - Sending and receiving Stop Signals (Owen, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep70-owen-age-8-stop-signals

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  10. Friends punish her?! (River, Age 9)| 160

    Episode 160

    Show notes

    Ep. 160- Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Recognizing stop signs | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What message does it send a friend if you ignore that friend’s stop sign?

    - Why do kids sometimes have trouble responding to stop signs from their friends?

    - Have you ever asked someone to stop and they didn’t listen? How did you feel? Why do you think they didn’t stop? How did you handle the situation?

    - Why is it not okay for friends to punish each other? How is punishment different from a logical consequence? (Hint: A logical consequence is the natural result of an action. For instance, if you are mean to a friend, the logical consequence is that the friend won’t want to be around you. If you blab a friend’s secret, the logical consequence is that friend won’t trust you with another secret. )

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 43 - Friend cut her hair! (Beatrix, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/beatrix-age-8-friend-cuts-her-hair

    Ep. 41 - Friends won't listen to stop or no (Tessa, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/tessa-age-9-boundaries

    Ep. 3 - Kid tries to wreck game (Noelle, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-episode-4b8

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  11. Losing her best friend! (Ellie, Age 10) | 159

    Episode 159

    Show notes

    Ep. 159- Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: What to do when a friendship is fading | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What are some reasons why kids’ friendships sometimes fall apart?

    - What would you do if you noticed a friend was suddenly acting more distant?

    - Why do friends sometimes refuse to tell you what’s wrong when there’s a problem between you? (Hint: What might they be afraid of?)

    - If a friend told you they were mad at you because of something you did, what could you do to make things better between you? What should you avoid doing in that situation?

    - What do you think it means to show up as your best self? Why is that important?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 151 - Why is it so hard to say, “I’m sorry”? (Minta, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep151-why-is-it-so-hard-to-say-im-sorry-minta-age-almost-10

    Ep. 77 - Friend is nicer to someone else (Maya, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep77-maya-age-8-friend-is-nicer-to-someone-else

    Ep. 73 - Best friend suddenly stops playing with him (J.J., Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep73-jj-age-11-best-friend-stops-playing-with-him

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  12. A false story about him! (Erik, Age 7) | 158

    Episode 158

    Show notes

    Ep. 158- Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Truth, falsehood, and different perspectives | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Students and teachers can have important and deeply caring relationships, but they can’t be friends. Why not?

    - What is the lesson of the story about three blind men describing an elephant?

    - How might understanding that different people can have different views about the same situation or event help you deal with a friendship rough spot?

    - Why do players in a sport agree to go along with what the umpire decides, even if they don’t agree?

    - Dr. Friendtastic said, “We can’t always win a game, but we can always win the fun.” How do you win the fun while playing with friends?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 75: Upset when he loses a game (Alex, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep75-alex-age-a10-upset-when-he-loses-a-game

    Ep. 140 - Friend lies and boasts (Martha, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep140-friend-lies-and-boasts-martha-age-9

    Ep. 20 - Lying friend (Anna, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-20-anna

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  13. Will she lose her friends in a different classroom? (Lily, Age 11) | 157

    Episode 157

    Show notes

    Ep. 157- Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Staying connected when you're not together | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Have you ever had a friend in a different classroom? What did you do to try to stay connected? Why is it sometimes hard for friends in different classrooms to stay close?

    - What are some things you do or would like to do with friends outside of school?

    - Why is it important to ask friends about what’s happening in their lives when you’re not around and tell them about what’s happening in your life when they’re not around? What’s the difference between being nosy and being an interested friend?

    - What do you think Dr. Friendtastic means when she suggests that Lily try to open-hearted? (Hint: She mentions Lily making other friends, and Lily’s friend making other friends.)

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 110 - Being apart from a friend (Matilda, Age 5)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep110-being-apart-from-a-friend-matilda-age5

    Ep 120 - Best friend is playing with someone else (Metis, Age 6)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep120-best-friend-playing-with-someone-else-metis-6-dutch

    Ep. 136. How long should you keep a friend (Matthew, Age 7)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/how-long-should-you-keep-a-friend

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  14. Friend’s new friend doesn’t like him (Ian, Age 11) | 156

    Episode 156

    Show notes

    Ep. 156- Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Having another friend isn't a betrayal | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - If you’re having a conflict with someone, do you think your friend has to be on your side, against the other kid? Why or why not? Why might your friend not want to take sides?

    - Have you ever been in a situation where another kid didn’t like you? Why didn’t they like you? How did you feel about them? How did things end up between you?

    - Dr. Friendtastic lists a bunch of things that could make the situation worse: Criticizing the friend’s other friend, acting grumpy around the friend, or insisting that the friend has to choose sides. Why are these NOT good options? (Hint: How is the friend likely to react?)

    - Why does Dr. Friendtastic encourage Ian to try to imagine the other kids’ feelings? (Hint: How might that be helpful for Ian?) Why does she focus on what Ian could do, rather than what the friend should do?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 117 - How to tell if a friend is loyal (Julian, Age 12)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/how-to-tell-if-a-friend-is-loyal

    Ep. 84 - Torn between two friends who don’t like each other (Jennifer, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep84-jennifer-age-10-torn-between-two-friends-who-dont-like-each-other

    Ep. 77 - Friend is nicer to someone else (Maya, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep77-maya-age-8-friend-is-nicer-to-someone-else

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  15. Friend is jealous and possessive (Miranda, Age 8) | 155

    Episode 155

    Show notes

    Ep. 155 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Finding a balance between caring and freedom | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What is your favorite possession and why? Would you feel comfortable letting another kid use or borrow it? Why or why not?

    - What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she says we can’t own friends?

    - Would you continue to be friends with someone who hit you? Why or why not?

    - Why do you think the friend felt upset when Miranda played with someone else? What could the friend have done to handle the situation better?

    - Have you ever worried that you might lose a friend to someone else? How did you handle that?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 73 - Best friend suddenly stops playing with him (J.J., Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep73-jj-age-11-best-friend-stops-playing-with-him

    Ep. 121 - Close friend and new friend leave her out (Sara, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep121-close-friend-and-new-friend-leave-her-out-sara-age8

    Ep. 17 - Balancing a best friend and another friend (Sophie, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-16-sophie

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  16. Friends say she’s bossy, but they’re bossy (Lola, Age 8) | 154

    Episode 154

    Show notes

    Ep. 154 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Listen to be heard | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What’s the difference between being bossy and being a leader?

    What are some not-so-good ways that kids might try to get another kid to do what they want? What could they do instead?

    Why is an “I” statement easier for people to hear than a “You” accusation?

    What does it mean to look for agreement rather than control with friends?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 149 Friends aren’t listening to her! (Bella, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep149-friends-arent-listening-to-her-bella-age-10

    Ep. 126 - How to have a conversation - for kids

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/replay-ep126-how-to-have-a-conversation-for-kids

    Ep. 18 - Building great leadership skills (Kai, Age 9)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-18-kai

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  17. Not invited to the sleepover! (Jim, Age 12) | Ep. 153

    Episode 153

    Show notes

    Ep. 153 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Don't give up a good friendship because it's not perfect | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What is the difference between not invited versus excluded? Why does that difference matter? (Hint: Think about the intention of the host.)

    - What are some non-mean reasons why you might do something with one friend but not another?

    - Why is it not a good idea to yell at someone for not inviting you?

    - All-or-nothing thinking means believing something has to be perfect or it’s worthless. Why is this not a useful way to think about friendship?

    - Dr. Friendtastic said, “What your friends do when you’re not around is not your concern.” What does that mean? Do you agree? Why or why not?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 4 - One friend feels left out (Thomas, Age 13)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-episode-71f

    Ep. 51 - Mean comment said behind her back (Saoirse, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/saoirse-age-8-mean-comment-said-behind

    Ep. 26 - Friendship doesn’t have to be all or nothing (Abigail, Age 10)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-26-abigail

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min
  18. How to be a good friend | re-release Ep. 42

    Show notes

    Re-release Ep. 42 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: 4 Areas of Friendship | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What are some ways that you are a good friend? (Hint: what do you do to show your friends you like and care about them?)

    - Why is it sometimes hard to be a good friend?

    - Thinking about the different friendship areas Dr. Friendtastic highlighted, fun, support, closeness, and handling conflicts, which do you think is the hardest to do well? Why?

    - What could you do to try to become an even better friend? (Think about all the areas and questions mentioned in the podcast episode.)

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 92 - What to say when a friend is feeling down (Mason. Age 13)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep92-mason-age-13-what-to-say-when-a-friend-feels-down

    Ep 136 - How long should you keep a friend (Matthew, Age 7)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/how-long-should-you-keep-a-friend

    Ep. 124 - How to Join Kids Playing (Amelia, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep124-how-to-join-kids-playing-amelia-age9

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  19. How to reconnect with old friends (Georgia, Age 10) | 152

    Episode 152

    Show notes

    Ep. 152 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Why reaching out to former friends is scary and also kind | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - What are some reasons why friends might fall out of touch (even if they still live nearby)?

    - Do you have any old friends you’ve lost touch with? Would you want to reconnect with them? Why or why not? How could you reach out to them? How do you think they’d respond?

    - How would you respond if an old friend you hadn’t heard from in a while reached out to you?

    - To expand your friendship circle, you could make new friends or reach out to old friends you haven’t connected with in a while. Which do you think is easier? Why?

    - Why do you think kids are sometimes reluctant to reach out to old friends? What could you say to a friend to encourage them to reach out to their former friends?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 82 - Expand friend group without hurting best friend (Paa, Age 12)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep82-paa-age-12-expand-friend-group-without-hurting-best-friend

    Ep. 71 - Is she a friend or not? (Tali, Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep71-tali-age-11-is-she-a-friend-or-not

    Ep. 67 - Choosing good friends (Paul, Age 12)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/paul-age-12-choosing-friends-who

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
  20. Why is it so hard to say “I’m sorry”? (Minta, Age almost 10) | 151

    Episode 151

    Show notes

    Ep. 151 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: An apology is an expression of caring | Friendship advice for kids

    FREE guide for parents: 12 ways to help your child make friends

    https://drfriendtastic.com/gift/

    Parents, check out my online workshops for kids at http://workshops.eileenkennedymoore.com.

    Would YOUR KID like to be featured on the podcast?

    SUBMIT A QUESTION TO DR. FRIENDTASTIC at https://DrFriendtastic.com/submit (Obviously, this is not psychotherapy, and it’s not for emergency situations.)

    For an easy-to-read TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

    Like the podcast? Check out my books at https://https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

    Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER,https://opendoor.eileenkennedymoore.com/subscribehttps://https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus articles for parents.

    *** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    - Is it hard or easy for you to apologize? Why? Why do you think kids sometimes struggle to apologize?

    - Think of a time when you apologized to someone. How did you feel? How did that person respond?

    - Think of a time when you wanted someone to apologize to you. What happened? Did they apologize? How did you feel?

    - Why does Dr. Friendtastic suggest, “The person who is least wrong should apologize first”?

    - Sometimes people say, “An apology isn’t good enough!” What do you think they might be looking for beyond the words “I’m sorry”?

    *** You might also like these podcast episodes:

    Ep. 111 - Friend won’t forgive her (Thea, Age 11)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep111-friend-wont-forgive-her-thea-age11

    Ep. 91 - Arguments with a friend (Kenna & Scarlett, Age 8)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep91-kenna-and-scarlett-age-8-arguments-with-a-friend

    Ep. 14 - Feeling guilty, wanting to make up with a friend (Rowan, Age 12)

    https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-14-rowan

    Get full access to Dr. Friendtastic for Parents at https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min