Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic

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Education for Kids
**Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic**

Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic is a 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

drfriendtastic.substack.com

Latest Episodes:

Laina, Age 11: Dealing with a manipulative friend Nov 02, 2024

Ep. 80 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with a manipulative friend

Laina wonders how to deal with a manipulative friend. But what does that even mean?

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever had a friend who tried to get you to do something you didn’t want to do? What did the friend do? How did you handle it?

- What’s the difference between trying to manipulate someone and trying to influence them?

- Why is it NOT a good idea to tell someone that they’re a bad person? What could you do instead?

- Why is it useful to try to imagine someone else’s perspective, even (or especially) if you’re mad at them?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “Your friend can’t actually MAKE you do anything you don’t want to do.” What does that mean?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 65 - Bridget, Age 14: Handling a controlling friend https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep65-bridget-age-14

Ep. 10 - Isaac, Age 7.5: Friend is disrespectful https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-10-isaac

Ep. 15 - Evie, Age 9: What is a close friend? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-15-evie

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

Mar, Age 11: Is your friend a fake friend? Oct 26, 2024

Ep. 79 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Is your friend a fake friend?

Mar wants to know how to recognize a fake friend.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- How would you define “being fake”? Why do you think kids sometimes act in ways that don’t match what they really think or feel?

- Why do kids sometimes act differently in different situations or with different people? Why is this NOT the same as being fake?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “Every friendship, if it lasts long enough, is going to hit a rough spot.” What do you think are some good ways to move past a friendship rough spot?

- Have you ever had an unreliable friend–someone you felt you couldn’t count on? How did you handle this?

- What does it mean to trust a friend? Can you trust a friend who makes a mistake and says or does something unkind? Why or why not?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 24 - Olivia, Age 13: Some friendships have limits https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-24-olivia

Ep. 26 - Sam, Age 13: Joining a new group of friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-16-sam

Ep. 34 - Chloe, Age 9: Upset by name-calling https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/chloe-age-9-upset-by-name-calling

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

How to Confront a Friend Oct 19, 2024

Ep. 78 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: How to confront a friend.

What can you say when a friend does something that upsets you? How do you get your message across without wrecking the friendship?

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- What does it mean to confront a friend about a problem? Have you ever had to do that? What happened?

- How do you decide when to confront a friend about a problem and when to let it go?

- Why do you think kids are sometimes afraid to confront a friend about a problem?

- Why are refusing to talk to a friend and telling everyone except your friend what your friend did wrong NOT helpful strategies for solving a problem with a friend? What could you do instead?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “A good confrontation is not about…proving you’re good and they’re bad! It’s about building and repairing a friendship.” What does that mean?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 73 - J.J., Age 11: Best friend suddenly stops playing with him https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep73-jj-age-11-best-friend-stops-playing-with-him

Ep. 43 - Beatrix, Age 8: Friend cuts her hair! https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/beatrix-age-8-friend-cuts-her-hair

Ep. 65 - Bridget, Age 14: Handling a controlling friend https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep65-bridget-age-14

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

Maya, Age 8: Friend is nicer to someone else Oct 12, 2024

Ep. 77 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: A friend is not a birthday cake!

Maya wonders what to do when she notices her friend being nicer to someone else than to her. Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus online workshop announcements.

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “A friend is not a birthday cake!” What does she mean by that? (Hint: Think about the difference between dividing a cake versus sharing a friend.)

- Have you ever felt jealous of a friend’s other friend? How did you handle that?

- What are some things you do to strengthen your friendships?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic say, “It’s not smart to have a ‘best friends or nothing’ attitude”? How could that attitude hurt you?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep 71 – Tali, Age 11 Is she a friend or not? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep71-tali-age-11-is-she-a-friend-or-not

Ep. 4 - Thomas, Age 13: One friend feels left out https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-episode-71f

Ep. 51 – Saoirse, Age 8: Mean comment said behind her back https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/saoirse-age-8-mean-comment-said-behind

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

Welcome to the Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic podcast! Oct 12, 2024

Ep. 0 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Trailer

Welcome! Each episode of the Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic podcast features an audio recording of a question about friendship from a kid (in grades K-8), plus a practical and thought-provoking answer.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 easy-to-read TRANSCRIPTS, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email!

SAMPLE EPISODES:

Ep. 44 – Vera, Age 8: Change self to make friends?https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/vera-age-8-change-self-to-make-friends

Ep. 57 – Zen, Age 6: Avoiding Conflicthttps://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep57-zen-age-6-avoiding-conflict

Ep. 55 – Blaire, Age 12: Say no without feeling badhttps://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/blaire-age-12-say-no-without-feeling

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

Anaya, Age 10: Friends ditch her Oct 05, 2024

Ep. 76 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Not signing up for more of the same

Anaya wonders what to do when friends leave her behind. Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus online workshop announcements.

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- How do you think Ayana felt when the other kids ditched her? Has anything like that ever happened to you? How did you handle it?

- Dr. Friendtastic says telling on the kids who ditched her probably won’t be helpful for Ayana. Do you agree? Why or why not? How do you decide when it’s a good idea to tell on someone?

- Mistakes and misunderstandings happen in every friendship. How do you decide whether to try to work things out with old friends or look for different friends?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “We can’t control what other people do; we can only control what we do.” What does this mean in Ayana’s case? (Hint: Can she make the other kids want to play with her?)

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 60 – Henry, Age 8: Friends invited but not him https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-drfriendtastic-ep60-henry-age-8

Ep. 74 – Aubrey, Age 6: Friend hits her https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep74-aubrey-age-6-friend-hits-her

Ep. 69 – Phoebe, Age 6: Friends exclude her https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/phoebe-age-6-friends-get-together

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

Alex, Age 10: Upset when he loses a game Sep 28, 2024

Ep. 75 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Learning to be a good sport

Like a lot of kids, Alex has trouble coping with losing a game.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus online workshop announcements.

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why do you think some kids have trouble handling losing a game? (Hint: How does losing make them think or feel?)

- What would you say to comfort a friend who was upset about losing a game

- Adults often tell kids, “It’s not whether you win or lose; it’s how you play the game.” What do you think that means?

- What are some things kids need to do or not do to be a good sport?

- What is your favorite game to play? What do you like about that game?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 7 – Emma, Age 11: Friend is a poor sport https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep7-poor-sport-friend

Ep. 53 – Lillian, Age 11: How to stay calm when someone is bragging https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/lillian-age-11-how-to-stay-calm-when

Ep. 66 – Adeline, Age 8: Friends don't invite her https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/adeline-age-8-friends-dont-invite

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

Aubrey, Age 6: Friend hits her Sep 21, 2024

Ep. 74 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: End a friendship or work it out?

Aubrey wants to know what to do about a friend who hits her.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus online workshop announcements.

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- School-age kids know they shouldn’t hit people, so why do you think they sometimes do?

- If someone hits you, why is hitting them back likely to make the situation worse? What could you do instead?

- If a friend did something you didn’t like, how would you decide whether to try to talk about it and work things out or end the friendship?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “The best time to talk about a problem is when people are NOT extremely upset.” Why is that true? (Hint: What’s likely to happen if you try to talk to someon about a problem when you or they are extremely upset?)

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 59 – Jessie, Age 13: Get rid of toxic friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep59-jessie-age-13

Ep. 6 – Jayden, Age 9: Why do kids bully? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep6-why-kids-bully

Ep. 62 – All About Forgiveness https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep62-all-about-forgiveness

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

J.J., Age 11: Best friend suddenly stops playing with him Sep 14, 2024

Ep. 73 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: A fast (but not easy) way to repair a friendship rift

J.J. feels hurt, angry, and confused because the kid he considered his best friend suddenly refuses to play with him.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus online workshop announcements.

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why is suddenly cutting someone off and refusing to speak with them NOT a good way to deal with conflicts?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic focus on what J.J. can do to move forward rather than what J.J.’s best friend did wrong? (Hint: Whose actions is J.J. in charge of?)

- Have you ever apologized to a friend? If so, why? How did the friend respond?

- Why is it sometimes hard for kids to apologize?

- What are some ways to apologize well? What are some examples of a not-so-good apology?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 68 – Maya, Age 6: Friend runs away from her https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/maya-age-6-friend-runs-away-from

Ep. 60 – Henry, Age 8: Friends invited but not him https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-drfriendtastic-ep60-henry-age-8

Ep. 71 – Tali, Age 11: Is she a friend or not? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ep71-tali-age-11-is-she-a-friend-or-not

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

Nora, Age 8: Making friends in a new school Sep 07, 2024

Ep. 72 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Making Friends at a New School

Nora wants to know what she can do to make friends when she's starting at a new school.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

FREE quiz: Is Your Child a Good Friend? https://eileenkennedymoore.ck.page/e37dcc098f

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Think of a time when you started a friendship. What happened? Who reached out first, you or the other kid? How did you and your friend show each other that you were open to friendship?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “Friendships take time to grow.” What does that mean? (Hint: Why do you NOT have to worry if you’re not instantly close friends with someone?)

- What’s one example of something kind you’ve done for another kid? How did that kid react?

- Why is it usually not a good idea to read a book at lunch or recess? (Hint: What message does that send other kids?)

- Why is it important to try to learn other kids’ names?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 63 - Rosie, age 5 3/4: Friend wants all her attention https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep63-rosie-age-5

Ep. 16 - Sam, age 13: Joining a new group of friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-16-sam

Ep. 44 - Vera, age 8: Change self to make friends? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/vera-age-8-change-self-to-make-friends

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

Tali, Age 11: Is she a friend or not? Aug 24, 2024

Ep. 71 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with a Hot-and-Cold Friend

Tali is trying to figure out whether a friend who runs hot-and-cold–sometimes kind, sometimes unkind–is really her friend.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- How does a close friendship differ from a casual friendship?

- Why do you think kids sometimes stick with a not-so-kind friend?

- What does it mean to you to be a “Steady-Warm Friend”?

- Everybody makes mistakes. How would you decide if a friendship is worth continuing after a friend does something you don’t like?

- What are some ways you could use good communication to handle a friendship rough spot or conflict?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 1 - Naomi, age 7: Friendship ends over small thing https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-1

Ep. 67 - Paul, age 12: Choosing good friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/paul-age-12-choosing-friends-who

Ep. 15 - Evie, age 9: What is a close friend https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-15-evie

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

Owen, Age 8: Knowing when and how to stop Aug 17, 2024

Ep. 70 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Sending and receiving Stop Signals

Owen asks about Stop Signals, which are all the verbal and nonverbal ways people tell someone to stop. Sending and receiving Stop Signals effectively can protect a friendship!

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why are Stop Signals important for protecting friendships? (Hint: What could happen if you want a friend to stop doing something, but you don’t say anything? What could happen if your friend gives you a Stop Signal and you ignore it?)

- Describe a time when a friend asked you to stop doing something. How did you feel about being asked to stop? How did you respond?

- Describe a time when you wanted a friend to stop doing something. How did you handle it? How did your friend respond?

- Why do you think kids sometimes ignore Stop Signals?

- What are some things you could do if you ask someone to stop but they don’t listen?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 41 - Tessa, Age 9: Friends won't listen to stop or no https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/tessa-age-9-boundaries

Ep. 18 – Kai, Age 9: Friends call him bossy https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-18-kai

Ep. 43 - Beatrix, Age 8: Friend cut her hair! https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/beatrix-age-8-friend-cuts-her-hair

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

Phoebe, Age 6: Friends get together without her Aug 10, 2024

Ep. 69 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Is an imperfect friendship worth keeping?

Phoebe feels excluded when her friends hang out without her.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever felt left out? How did you handle it?

- Why is it unfair (and unkind) to insist, “I’ll only be your friend if you never do anything without me!”?

- Why is it sometimes worth keeping an imperfect friendship with someone who is usually kind and fun?

- Dr. Friendtastic said that doing activities together, inviting someone over, or saying, “I’d love to do that with you sometime!” could be good ways to deepen a friendship. What have you done to try to become closer friends with someone?

- Why might adding a fourth friend to the group be helpful?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 26 - Abigail, Age 10 - Friendship doesn't have to be all or nothing https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-26-abigail

Ep. 8 - Blake, Age 11: Excluded by friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-episode-1b6

Ep. 66 - Adeline, Age 8: Friends don't invite her https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/146810575/b3524087ba7d2f24c11daf518984e212.mp3

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

Maya, Age 6: Friend runs away from her Aug 03, 2024

Ep. 68 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Avoiding the demand-withdraw pattern

Maya wonders how to handle a friend who runs away and ignores her.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever been in a situation like Maya’s, where someone was running away from you? Have you ever run away from someone? What happened?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic suggest NOT chasing a friend who is running away (unless it’s a fun game of tag!)? (Hint: What should you look for in a friendship?)

- Why do you think kids sometimes avoid discussing problems? How might that hurt a friendship? What could friends do to make problem discussions easier? (Hint: What are things you could say or avoid saying to make a conflict less painful?)

- Why might it be a good idea for the person who is LEAST wrong to apologize first?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 32 - Tara, Age 12: Friend is pulling away https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-32-tara

Ep. 45 - Reid, Age 5: Gets angry at classmates https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/reid-age-5-gets-angry-at-classmates

Ep. 60 - Henry, Age 8: Friends invited but not him https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-drfriendtastic-ep60-henry-age-8

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

Paul, Age 12: Choosing friends who are a good influence Jul 27, 2024

Ep. 67 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Peer pressure vs. peer influence

Paul asks how to find the right friends to surround himself with.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- What are some ways that you’ve been influenced by your friends? Do you think that influence has been positive (good for you) or negative (bad for you)? Why?

- Have you ever been in a situation where a friend tried to pressure you to do something you didn't want to do? What happened?

- What three words would you use to describe the five (or so) friends you spend the most time with? Do you think those three words also describe you? Why or why not?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “However your friends might influence or even pressure you, you’re in charge of deciding what’s the right thing for you to do.” What does that mean?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 16 - Sam, Age 13: Joining a new group of friends https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-16-sam

Ep. 36 - Ann, Age 9: Dealing with peer pressure https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ann-age-9-dealing-with-peer-pressure

Ep. 43 - Beatrix, Age 8: Friend cut her hair! https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/beatrix-age-8-friend-cuts-her-hair

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

Adeline, Age 8: Friends don’t invite her Jul 20, 2024

Ep. 66 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: What’s behind a friend wanting to control you?

Adeline wishes her friends would invite her to play during recess, but she doesn’t have to wait for an invitation.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever had a controlling friend? If so, why do you think your friend was trying to control you? How did you handle it?

- Has anyone ever told you that you were being bossy or controlling? If so, what happened? What are some signs that you might be pushing a friend too hard and need to stop?

- Rigid thinkers tend to believe that there is “one right way” to do things. How could that hurt a friendship? (Hint: How might a friend feel if they want to do things differently?)

- What does it mean to “agree to disagree”? Why is it sometimes good to do this in a friendship?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 60 - Henry, Age 8: Friends invited but not him https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-drfriendtastic-ep60-henry-age-8

Ep. 39 - Maya, Age 8: Replaced by a friend's new friend https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/maya-age-8-replaced-by-a-friends

Ep. 26 - Abigail, Age 10: Friendship doesn't have to be all or nothing https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-26-abigail

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

Bridget, Age 14: Handling a controlling friend Jul 13, 2024

Ep. 65 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: What’s behind a friend wanting to control you?

Bridget wonders how to deal with a friend who is being controlling.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever had a controlling friend? If so, why do you think your friend was trying to control you? How did you handle it?

- Has anyone ever told you that you were being bossy or controlling? If so, what happened? What are some signs that you might be pushing a friend too hard and need to stop?

- Rigid thinkers tend to believe that there is “one right way” to do things. How could that hurt a friendship? (Hint: How might a friend feel if they want to do things differently?)

- What does it mean to “agree to disagree”? Why is it sometimes good to do this in a friendship?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 59 - Jessie, Age 13: Get rid of toxic friends? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep59-jessie-age-13

Ep. 18 - Kai, Age 9: Building great leadership skills https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-18-kai

Ep. 41 - Tessa, Age 9: Friends won't listen to stop or no https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/tessa-age-9-boundaries

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

Blake, Age 13: Make friends with different interests Jun 29, 2024

Ep. 64 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Building real connections to make friends.

Blake wants to know how to make friends with kids who have different interests than he does.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- What interest or activity do you enjoy that has helped you (or could help you) make friends?

- Why is pretending to be interested in something when you’re not a bad strategy for trying to make friends? (Hint: How might other kids react when they find out that you’re just pretending to be interested?)

- Have you ever picked up a new interest or activity because a friend likes it? What happened?

- If you want to pick up a new interest, why is it a good idea to try to learn about it a bit on your own, instead of just asking people about it?

What is the difference between being friendly versus being friends with someone

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 15 - Evie, Age 9: What is a close friend? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-15-evie

Ep. 49 - Charlotte, Age 8: Feeling different and rejected https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/charlotte-age-8-feeling-different

Ep. 35 - Ryan, Age 11: Peers put down his interestshttps://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/ryan-age-11-peers-put-down-his-interests

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

Rosie, Age 5 3/4: Friend wants all her attention Jun 22, 2024

Ep. 63 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with being excluded.

Rosie wonders why her friend doesn’t want her to play with anyone else, and what she can do about it.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why do you think kids sometimes have trouble sharing a friend with other friends?

- Have you ever been in a situation like Rosie’s, either as the friend who didn’t want to share a friend or the friend who wanted to play with other kids? What happened? How did you handle it?

- Why is it a good idea to try to imagine why a friend might be doing what they’re doing, especially when we don’t like what they’re doing? (Hint: How are you likely to feel and act toward the friend when you can understand their perspective?)

- Would you respond differently to hearing “I like you, AND I want to play with other friends” versus “I like you, BUT I want to play with other friends”? Why or why not?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 13 - Mara, Age 9: Friend doesn't want her to have other friends

https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-13-mara

Ep. 16 - Sam, Age 13: Joining a new group of friends

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

Ep. 26 - Abigail, Age 10: Friendship doesn't have to be all or nothing

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

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

All About Forgiveness Jun 15, 2024

Ep. 62 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: How to forgive friends who have hurt us.

When a friend says or does something that hurts us, it’s easy to get stuck in self-righteous bitterness and resentment. But for our own sake, as much as theirs, we need to find ways to forgive them and move past those unavoidable friendship rough spots.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

Think of a time when you’ve forgiven someone for doing something that hurt or upset you. What happened? Why did you decide to forgive them?

Dr. Friendtastic said, “Holding onto bitterness and resentment hurts us more than anyone else.” What does that mean?

How is forgiving someone different than letting someone be mean to you? (Hint: It has to do with how you think about them and what you say to them.)

One of the forgiveness guidelines Dr. Friendtastic mentioned is: If it happened more than a month ago, definitely let it go! Do you agree with that guideline? Why or why not?

Why is it sometimes easier to forgive other people than to forgive ourselves?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 59 - Jessie, Age 13: Get rid of toxic friends? https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep59-jessie-age-13

Ep. 43 - Beatrix, Age 8: Friend cut her hair! https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/beatrix-age-8-friend-cuts-her-hair

Ep. 14 - Rowan, Age 12: Feeling guilty, wanting to make up with a friend https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-14-rowan

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

Lucy, Age 6: How to fight less with brother Jun 08, 2024

Ep. 61 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with being excluded.

Brothers and sisters can be a lot of fun, but sometimes they’re hard to live with. Lucy wants to know how to fight less with your brother.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why do you think it’s sometimes harder for kids to get along with a sibling than a friend?

- When a kid does something that annoys us, it’s tempting to do the same thing–or something worse–right back to them. Why is this usually not a good idea? (HINT: Why do both kids lose in a “contest” of who can be meanest?)

- Dr. Friendtastic said “If you’ve asked a sibling [or other kid] to stop two times, and they haven’t listened, they’re probably not going to listen,” so your goal should shift “to taking care of yourself.” How could you do that?

- Do you think it’s easiest to be an only child, an oldest sibling, a youngest sibling, or a middle sibling? Why?

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

Ep. 30 - Michael, Age 10: Why do some kids push others around?

https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-30-michael

Ep. 31 - Mila, Age 10: When someone tries to be annoying

https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/kids-ask-dr-friendtastic-ep-31-mila

Ep. 40 - Vihan, Age 6: Friendly brother also acts wild

https://drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/vihaan-age-6-friendly-brother-acts-wild

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

Henry, Age 8: Friends invited but not him Jun 01, 2024

Ep. 60 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with being excluded.

What should Henry do when a kid invites his friends to play but not him?

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Why do you think kids sometimes exclude other kids?

- Have you ever felt excluded? What happened? How did you respond?

- Why is it not a good idea to beg or bribe another kid to include you?

- What do you think of the rule “You can’t say someone can’t play”? Are there any situations where it’s OK to exclude someone? What could you do if someone was wrecking the game, being too rough, or refusing to follow the rules? How could you handle it if lots of kids wanted to play a game that’s only for a few people?

- Being “the boss” can be fun and exciting. What could someone do to be a “good boss” or a true leader? (Hint: What could a leader do or not do to make the people who are getting directions feel good?)

*** You might also like these podcast episodes:

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

Ep. 8 - Blake, Age 11: Excluded by friends

Ep. 39 - Maya, Age 8: Replaced by a friend’s new friend

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

Jessie, Age 13: Get rid of toxic friends May 18, 2024

Ep. 59 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dumping a friend or working things out by changing the dance.

Jessie wants to get out of some painful relationships.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever wanted to end a friendship? What happened?

- In your own words, how would you explain this comment from Dr. Friendtastic? “I don’t believe people can be poison [toxic]. What I do believe is that sometimes people get into patterns of interacting that are hurtful for one or both of them.”

- How is a friendship like an old-fashioned dance, where people hold onto each other? What are some ways you could change a friendship dance if you didn’t like what was happening?

- Why is it not a good idea to suddenly stop talking to a friend, with no explanation?

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

Kenna, Age 7: Someone’s about to get hurt! May 11, 2024

Ep. 58 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Safety first

Keara wonders what to do to keep a friend safe.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever been in a situation where you thought a friend was in danger? What happened? How did you handle it?

- What are some reasons why kids sometimes do things that are unsafe?

- Safety is important, but sometimes kids can be too careful, meaning they don’t want to do things if there’s even a tiny possibility of danger or discomfort. What do you think would be an example of being too careful? How could being too careful be a problem?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “Preventing dangerous situations is usually easier than dealing with them after they’ve happened.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

- Why might standing near a teacher or a group of friends be useful for preventing problems with someone who is acting too rough?

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

Zen, Age 6: Avoiding Conflict May 04, 2024

Ep. 57 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: The upside of disagreements.

Zen wants to know how to avoid conflicts, but what if conflicts are sometimes helpful?

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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 and webinars at https://EileenKennedyMoore.com.

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Describe a conflict you had with a friend. What happened? What was your friend’s point of view and what was yours? How did the conflict affect your friendship?

- Dr. Friendtastic says that conflict can be a way for friends to learn about each other. What does that mean?

- When might it be a good idea to give in and do what your friend wants, even though it isn’t exactly what you want? When is it NOT a good idea to do this?

- Why is it important to try to understand what a friend is thinking or feeling? (Hint: What could happen if we just insist on what we want?)

- What are some things you can do or not do to make conflicts with a friend less painful?

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

Diego, Age 11: Trouble making friends Apr 27, 2024

Ep. 56 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Showing openness to friendship.

Diego wants to know what he can do to make friends.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Think of a time when you had to make new friends. What did you do? How did other kids respond?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic emphasize trying to make friends with kids who like to do the same things you like to do?

- Why do you think some kids only want to be friends with the most popular kids? What are some possible problems with this approach to friendship?

- What do you think it means to show that you’re open to friendship? What are some ways to do this? What actions would signal that you’re NOT open to friendship?

- Why is it a good thing to invite someone to get together with you, even if they say no, they can’t because they’re busy? (Hint: What message do you give the other kid with your invitation?)

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

Blaire, Age 12: Say no without feeling bad Apr 20, 2024

Ep. 55 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: How saying no can save a friendship.

Blaire feels bad about saying no to friends. How can she think about things differently?

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts 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?

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

Dimitri, Age 12: How to help a friend dealing with hard times Apr 13, 2024

Ep. 54 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Showing up for friends the way they want.

Dimitri wants to what he can do to support a friend who is dealing with hard times.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

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

*** DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Think of a hard time you’ve been through. What kind of support from friends did you find helpful (or not helpful) during that time?

- How could giving advice hurt a friendship?

- What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she says that your friend knows best what kind of support they need?

- Why might listening be a good way to support a friend who is going through a hard time?

- What could you do to support a friend who doesn’t feel like talking about their problems?

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

Lillian, Age 11: How to stay calm when someone is bragging Apr 06, 2024

Ep. 53 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Knowing the difference between bragging and sharing good news

Bragging is annoying because it carries an implied putdown: “I’m better than you!” Lillian wants to know how to stay calm when someone is bragging. But are they bragging or just sharing good news?

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

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

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

Why is bragging NOT a good way to make friends? (Hint: How does it make other people feel?) What are some better ways to make friends?

What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she says, “Most of the time, when people are bragging, there is no contest”? Why might keeping that in mind be helpful for staying calm when someone is bragging?

Have you ever felt envious of something good that happened to a friend? What was the thing that made you feel envious? How did you handle it? How did it affect your friendship?

Has anyone ever told you, “Quit bragging!”? Do you think you were bragging? Why or why not? What did you do after that?

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

Tyler, Age 12: Friend‘s parents don’t like him Mar 23, 2024

Ep. 52 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with hearsay

Tyler wonders how to fix things when his friend’s parents don’t like him.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

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

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever tried to change how someone (kid or adult) views you? What happened? Why do you think reputations can be hard to change?

- Why is it a good idea to try to get along well with your friends’ parents?

- What are some ways that kids can show they are being respectful toward adults?

- Which of your friends do your grown-ups like the most? Why?

- When you make a mistake, why do you think it’s important to think honestly about what you did wrong? (Hint: What does that enable you to do?)

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

Saoirse, Age 8: Mean comment said behind her back Mar 16, 2024

Ep. 51 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with hearsay

Saoirse wonders what to do when a friend tells her another girl called her weird.

Scroll down for discussion questions.

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

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- Have you ever been in a situation where you found out that someone was saying something mean about you behind your back? What were they saying? How did you handle it?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic say it’s freeing to realize that what people say about you when you’re not around is none of your business? (Hint: What are some possible downsides of always trying to find out what people are saying about you when you’re not there?)

- How does repeating someone’s mean comment to someone else spread meanness?

- What are some good ways that you’re “weird” (i.e., different from other kids you know)?

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

A Common Belief that Blocks Friendship Mar 09, 2024

Ep. 50 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Beyond the Magnet Myth of Friendship

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- What is the Magnet Myth of Friendship? Why is the Magnet Myth NOT true?

- How are friends different from fans?

- Why does bragging not help you make friends? (Hint: How are other kids likely to react?)

- How might worrying about not being “good enough” get in the way of making friends?

- Dr. Friendtastic says to “focus on being interested rather than interesting.” What do you think that means? How could you show someone that you are interested in them?

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

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes plus posts for parents sent to your email address.

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

Charlotte, Age 8: Feeling different and rejected Feb 17, 2024

Ep. 49 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Feeling Different and Rejected

Charlotte wonders what to do when her differences separate her from her peers.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- We are all different. What are some ways that you are different from other kids around you? Do you feel proud, neutral, or ashamed about those differences? How do those differences affect your friendships?

- What are some examples of visible differences (that people see immediately)? What are some examples of invisible differences (meaning the differences are real and important but other people don’t necessarily realize they’re there when they first meet someone)?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “A shared activity can bridge differences and build connection.” What does this mean?

- Why do you think some kids don’t want to be around kids who are different from them? How could this attitude hurt them?

For a formatted TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

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

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

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

Lily, Age 6: New friend claims to be best friend Feb 10, 2024

Ep. 48 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Attraction versus closeness

Lily wonders how to understand a friend who claims instant intimacy.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

- In your own words, how would you describe the difference between attraction and closeness?

- Have you ever had someone try to influence you by saying, “I’ll be your best friend…” or “I won’t be your best friend…”? What did they want you to do? How did you respond?

- Have you ever met someone and immediately thought, “We’re going to be good friends!” Did you end up becoming close friends? Why or why not?

- How could saying something like “No thanks” or “I’m not comfortable doing that” deepen your friendship?

For a formatted TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

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

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

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

Brayden, Age 9: Why are friends important? Feb 03, 2024

Ep. 47 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Friends matter. Here's why.

We all know friends are important, but Brayden wants to know why. In this week’s episode, I spell out some research findings about the importance of friends and also some ideas about how to be a good friend.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think having good friends makes it easier for kids to cope with stress? How has a friend been kind or helpful to you when you’ve had to deal with difficult situations?

- How can too much conflict hurt a friendship?

- Why do you think kids sometimes stick with a low-quality friendship (where there’s a lot of conflict and not much fun or closeness)?

- What are some examples of things you’ve done to support or care for a friend?

- Think of a time you had a friendship rough spot. How did you handle it?

- Dr. Friendtastic says that learning to be a good friend “is a step toward peace and justice in the world.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

For a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

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

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

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

Anna, Age 9: Wishing for a Best Friend Jan 27, 2024

Ep. 46 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Building closer friendships

When they see that other kids paired off with a best friend, and they don’t have one, kids can feel like they’re missing out. Anna wants to know what she can do to get a best friend.

For a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Who do you consider your closest friends? How did you become close?

- Has anyone ever said to you, “I’ll be your best friend if you..”? If so, how did that make you feel? Why is this NOT a good way to make close friends?

- What do you think Dr. Friendtastic means when she says, “Friends are people, not possessions”? (Hint: She also talks about building a close friendship together, with time and effort.)

- Why do you think Dr. Friendtastic likes the term “close friend” more than “best friend”?

- Thinking about the kids you know now, who is someone you’d like to become closer friends with? How could you do that?

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

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

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

Reid, Age 5: Gets angry at classmates Jan 20, 2024

Ep. 45 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Gets angry at classmates

Reid asks about a common problem: getting mad at his peers. Hear what does–and doesn’t–work to manage anger.

For a TRANSCRIPT, go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Think of a recent time that you felt angry with another kid. What happened? How did you handle it?

- What are some reasons why it’s not a good idea to act rough when you’re angry? (Hint: How are other people likely to react? How would you feel about yourself?)

- Why do you think crossing your arms and taking two steps back are the first steps for emergency coping with anger? (Hint: what might that prevent?

- Dr. Friendtastic lists a bunch of possible distraction strategies to use for emergency coping with anger, including saying the alphabet in your mind, counting by even numbers, doing math, or remembering the words to a song. Which of these would you like to try,? What else could you do to distract yourself when you’re mad?

- The coping thoughts that Dr. Friendtastic mentions, such as “I don’t like this, but I can handle it,” recognize that the situation is hard AND that you can cope with it. What coping statements do you think might be useful for you to think about when you start to feel angry?

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

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

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

Vera, Age 8: Change self to make friends? Jan 13, 2024

Ep. 44 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Being true to our authentic self

Vera wants to know if we have to change ourselves to make friends.

For a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Think about yourself two or three years ago. How have you changed? How have you stayed the same?

- Have you ever been in a situation where you thought you had to hide your real self from other kids? What made you think you had to do that? How did the other kids react? How did you feel while doing it or after doing it?

- Describe some times when you’ve done something that wasn’t exactly what you wanted because you cared about a friend. How did your friend respond? How did you feel while doing it or after doing it?

- Dr. Friendtastic says friendship is about knowing and caring for each other. What do you think that means in terms of what you should do or not do to build a close friendship with another kid? Why do we need both ingredients, knowing and caring, for friendship?

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

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

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

Beatrix, Age 8: Friend cut her hair! Jan 06, 2024

Ep. 43 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Learning to say “No.”

Beatrix somehow agreed to let her friend snip a tiny bit of her hair but was shocked when the friend cut a big chunk! How can she protect her hair and the friendship?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever had a situation where you went along with what a friend wanted but later regretted it? What happened? How did you handle it with your friend?

- Why do you think it’s sometimes hard to say no to a friend?

- Why do you think friends sometimes don’t listen or keep arguing after they’ve heard no?

- Have you ever felt envious of a friend–wishing you had something they do or could be more like them? What did you envy? How did it affect your friendship?

- If you were in Beatrix’s situation, would you be able to forgive a friend who cut more of your hair than you expected? Why or why not?

Books mentioned in the podcast: Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMooreTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

How to Be a Good Friend Dec 16, 2023

Ep. 42 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: How to Be a Good Friend.

In this year-end wrap-up, Dr. Friendtastic describes 4 areas of friendship that are necessary for becoming a good friend.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

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.)

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Tessa, Age 9: Friends won’t listen to “stop” or “no” Dec 09, 2023

Ep. 41 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Understanding and communicating about boundaries.

Tessa wonders how to handle things when her friends don’t respect her boundaries.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Describe a time when someone crossed a boundary of your. Why do you think they did that? How did you handle it?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “Good boundaries can save friendships.” What does that mean? What could happen if you don’t talk with your friends about boundaries?

- Communicating about your communication can be difficult. How do you think your friends would react if you said, ““I’ve asked you twice to stop, but you keep doing that. What’s going on?” Why might it be a good idea to ask “What’s going on?” rather than just yelling at them? (Hint: how is your friend likely to respond to those comments?

- If a friend crosses your boundaries, does that mean the friendship has to end? What oculd you do instead? Boundaries can vary depending on the situation, our culture, and our relationship with others. Sometimes they even chage over time. What are some good ways to figure out what someone else’s boundaries are?

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMooreTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Vihaan, Age 6: Friendly brother also acts wild Dec 02, 2023

Ep. 40 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Imagining the feelings behind wild behavior.

Vihaan’s brother is his best friend, but sometimes he acts wild. How can Vihaan handle this?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you been around a friend or sibling who acts wild? What do you think helps or doesn’t help in that situation?

- Has anyone told you that you were acting too wild? What feelings were behind your wild behavior? (In other words, how were you feeling at that time?)

- Dr. Friendtastic explained that there are a bunch of different reasons why someone might be acting wild, including being overexcited, not wanting the fun to end, feeling lonely or bored, or feeling frustrated. Why do you think it’s important to figure out why smeone is acting wild?

- When should you try to handle a friend or sibling’s misbehavior by yourself, and when should you get a grown-up involved?

- What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she says, “Winning and losing only last about two seconds”? Why is that an important thing to understand?

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMooreTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Maya, Age 8: Replaced by a friend’s new friend Nov 18, 2023

Ep. 39 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with jealousy about a friend’s other friend.

Maya wants to know how to reconnect with a friend who seems to have moved on to a new best friend.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever been in a situation like Maya’s, where you felt jealous of a friend’s other friend? What happened? How did you handle it?

- Dr. Friendtastic mentions three things that would NOT help in this situation: yelling at the friend, being mean to the new friend, and trying to divide the friend evenly. Why do you think those would NOT be good choices? (Hint: How would they make the friend feel?)

- Why is it important to try to be “good company” when you’re with a friend, so they enjoy being with you? What are some ways to be good company?

- What are some reasons why it’s good to have more than one friend?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Richard, Age 11: Wondering how to be popular Nov 11, 2023

Ep. 38 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Popular kids aren’t necessarily well-liked.

Richard wants to know how to become popular.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Which kids do you know whom you consider to be popular? What do you think makes them popular? Are they also well-liked by other kids? Why or why not?

- Which kids do you know who are well-liked by other kids? What do you think makes them well-liked?

- Why do kids sometimes want to be popular? Do you think that’s an important goal? Why or why not?

- Why do you think popular kids tend to be more anxious and sad than kids who have a few close friends?

- What does this statement mean: “Kindness is about how the other person feels and what they want”?

- What are some examples of kind things you’ve done for other kids? Why is it a good idea to do at least one kind action every day? (Hint: How does it make other people feel? How does it make you feel?)

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Saanvi, Age 12: What’s the right gift for a friend? Nov 04, 2023

Ep. 37 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Balancing giving and getting.

Saanvi isn’t sure how to respond to a friend who gives her expensive gifts.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- What is the best gift you ever received from a friend? What makes you think it’s the best?

- Why do you think Saanvi’s parents don’t want her to give her friend and expensive gift? What are some reasons why giving a friend an expensive gift might not be a good idea?

- What is something you gave to a friend that didn’t cost any money, but the friend really liked it?

- Dr. Friendtastic listed a bunch of ideas of possible gifts for a friend that cost little or no money: teaching the friend something, helping a friend with chores, makin a drawing or a craft, yummy food, a photo collage, a slide show, or a video about the two of you, writing a letter or a card telling the friend how much they mean to you. Which of those would you most like to receive? Which of these–or another idea–would you most like to give to a friend?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Ann, Age 9: Dealing with peer pressure Oct 28, 2023

Ep. 36 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Learning to say "no."

Ann wants to know how to avoid letting her friends drag her into doing something she knows she shouldn’t do.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- What are some positive ways your friends have influenced you?

- Have you ever had friends or other kids try to influence you to do something that wasn’t smart or kind? What happened?

- Why do you think it’s sometimes hard for kids to say no to friends?

- Have you ever tried to influence a friend to do something? What was it? Why did you want your friend to do it? How did you try to influence your friend? How did your friend respond?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Ryan, Age 11: Peers put down his interests Oct 21, 2023

Ep. 35 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Figuring out whose opinion matters to you

Ryan feels hurt when a classmate boos his efforts and punches his example owl.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Whose opinion matters to you? In other words, who are the special people in your life that you want to think well of you? (Hint: These are people who care about you!)

- Have you ever been in a situation like Ryan, where someone said something mean about your efforts? What did they say? Why do you think they said that? How did you respond?

- Ryan has been thinking about his classmate’s mean comments for months. What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she tells him, “Don’t give this kid that much power?”

- Why do you think it’s not worth arguing or trying to defend yourself when someone whose opinion doesn’t matter to you says something mean?

- What would you say to comfort a friend who got booed or heard mean comments about their efforts?

- Dr. Friendtastic says, “You can’t please everyone.” She can’t, either! Why is it NOT a good idea to try to please everyone?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Chloe, Age 9: Upset by name-calling Oct 14, 2023

Ep. 34 - Chloe, Age 9: Upset by name-calling | Communicating about communicating

Chloe’s friend doesn’t listen when she asks him to stop calling her names

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever been called names you didn’t like? What happened? How did you handle it?

- Why is it important to stop when a friend asks us to stop? What are some reasons why kids sometimes don’t stop when asked?

- Dr. Friendtastic mentioned communicating about your communication by describing the pattern you see and asking what’s going on. Why might this be a helpful thing to do in a friendship? (Hint: Why is it useful to describe the pattern? Why is it useful to ask what’s going on?")

- What does this statement mean: “How you think affects how you feel”?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Richard, Age 11: Best ways to show empathy Oct 07, 2023

Ep. 33 – Richard, Age 11: Best ways to show empathy | Turning caring into action

Richard wants to know how to show more empathy for other kids.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Which do you think is the hardest part of showing empathy: Paying attention, imagining the other person’s perspective, caring, or caring action? Why?

- Why do you think friends who are feeling upset often don’t want advice? What do you think they might want instead? What does Dr. Friendtastic mean when she says, “Unwanted advice can come across as criticism”?

- How might showing empathy look different with a close friend versus someone you don’t know well?

- Why is it a good idea to say “you” rather than “I” when you’re empathizing with a friend? (Hint: Where do you want the focus to be?) How might feeling very emotional yourself get in the way of offering empathy for a friend?

- Why is it important to ask, “What can I do to help?”

- Dr. Friendtastic mentions a bunch of examples of small acts of kindness to show you care about someone. What are some small acts of kindness you’ve done to show your friends you care?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Tara, Age 12: Friend is pulling away Sep 30, 2023

Ep. 32 – Tara, Age 12: Friend is pulling away | TTrying to reconnect when a friendship starts to fade

Tara wonders what to do when a friend becomes less interested in hanging out with the group.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever switched friendship groups? What led to that change? How did it work out? To what extent did you stay in touch with your previous friend group?

- Were you surprised to learn how often kids’ friendships don’t last a full school year? Why or why not? What are some reasons why friends might grow apart?

- What are two things you should definitely NOT do when you sense a friend is pulling away?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic recommend talking to the leaning-away friend one-on-one? Why might that work out better than having the whole group confront this friend?

- Have you ever reconnected with a friend after you grew apart? What led to you reconnecting?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Mila, Age 10: When someone tries to be annoying Sep 23, 2023

Ep. 31 – Mila, Age 9: When someone tries to be annoying | Taking care of yourself versus trying to change others

What can Mila and her friends do about a kid who keeps bothering them?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Do you or someone you know fit the description of a high-energy kid who has trouble sitting still and tends to act without thinking about what might happen or how others might react? What are some good things about having a lot of energy? In what ways can it cause problems with adults or other kids?

- What does compassion mean? Why can imagining what life is like for someone else help us gain compassion for that person? Why is it important to try to find compassion even for people who annoy us?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “If you’ve asked a kid politely to stop doing something two times, and they haven’t listened, they’re probably not going to listen.” Why is this a useful guideline? (Hint: What does it prevent you from doing? What does it allow you to focus on instead?)

- We can’t control what others do, but we can control how we think about our situation. How can deciding that something someone else does isn’t important be a way of taking care of yourself?

- How do you know when to ignore other kids’ misbehavior and when to go to the teacher or other adult for help?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Michael, Age 10: Why do some kids push others around? Sep 16, 2023

Ep. 30 – Michael, Age 10: Why do some kids push others around? | Getting positive versus negative attention

Michael wants to know why some kids think it’s okay to physically push others.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever gotten negative attention from other kids? (In other words, were kids talking or yelling at you because they were annoyed about something you were doing?) What’s a good way to handle things when that happens?

- Do you know a kid like the one Michael describes? Why do you think that kid does what he does? How does this kid’s actions affect their friendships?

- Michael says the pushing happens “every time” this kid goes on the slide. Why do you think asking a grown-up to stand near the slide at the beginning of recess, before anything bad has happened, could be a useful idea? How might this be better than complaining after someone has been pushed?

- Why might it be easier for the other kid to listen if Michael says, “Everyone needs to wait their turn” instead of “YOU need to wait your turn!”?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Abby, Age 9: Dealing with Teasing Sep 09, 2023

Ep. 29 – Abby, Age 9: Dealing with Teasing | Dealing with spill-over anger.

Avni asks what to do when a friend is angry about someone or something else but takes it out on her.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Do you have strong feelings about bananas? Why or why not? (OK, that question doesn’t have anything to do with friendship, but it’s fun to think about!)

- What are some reasons why kids tease?

- Can you think of a time that someone teased you in a friendly way? How could you tell it was friendly rather than mean teasing?

- Have you ever been the target of mean teasing? What happened? How did you respond?

- Have you ever teased someone in what you thought was a fun and friendly way but the other kid got upset? What happened? Why do you think that kid was bothered by what you said? What did you do to help the other kid feel better?

- Why is it important to tell a friend if their teasing bothers you? What could happen to your friendship if you don’t say anything about that?

- Dr. Friendtastic gave lots of examples of neutral or boring responses to teasing. Why might those work better than yelling at the teaser? Which of those comments would you feel comfortable saying if you were teased?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Avni, Age 11: Being unfairly targeted by a friend’s anger Aug 12, 2023

Ep. 28 – Avni, Age 11: Being unfairly targeted by a friend’s anger | Dealing with spill-over anger.

Avni asks what to do when a friend is angry about someone or something else but takes it out on her.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Spill-over anger is when you’re mad at one person but take it out on someone else. What are some reasons why kids (and adults!) sometimes do that? Have you ever unfairly taken your anger out on someone? Have you ever been the target of someone’s spill-over anger? What happened?

- Why is acting aggressively and yelling at people NOT a good way to deal with feeling angry? (Hint: What would that likely do to your friendships?)

- What do you think are some good ways to tell a friend that what they’re doing bothers you?

- How do you decide when you’re going to forgive a friend’s mistake and when their mistake means the friendship is over?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Dr. Friendtastic's Friendship League: Josh Martin Aug 05, 2023

Ep. 27 – Dr. Friendtastic's Friendship League: Josh Martin

In this episode, Josh Martin, who is the voice of Dragon Ball Z’s Majin Buu, talks about coping with being the new kid. Learn more about Josh at https://www.instagram.com/originalbuu/?hl=en.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Being “the new kid” can happen when we move homes or when we join a new group or activity. Have you ever felt like “the new kid”? How did you handle that?

- Dr. Friendtastic says that common ground is where friendships grow. What does that mean to you? What are some ways to find or create common ground with other kids?

- Which activities have you done that have been most helpful to you for making friends?

- Being kind doesn’t guarantee that someone will become our friend. Why is it a good idea to be kind, anyway?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Abigail, Age 10: Feeling like a second-choice friend Jul 29, 2023

Ep. 26 – Abigail, Age 10: Feeling like a second-choice friend | Friendship doesn’t have to be all or nothing

Abigail wonders what to do when her two friends would rather play with each other than with her.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever felt like a second-choice friend? How did you handle it? Do you think it’s possible to be good friends with someone if they like someone else more than they like you? Why or why not?

- Has a friend ever told you that they feel left out or jealous of your other friend? How did you respond?

- What does “all-or-nothing thinking” mean, when it comes to friendship? Why is it not a good idea?

- Saying, “You’re mean!” is not a good way to encourage someone to be kinder to you. Why do you think kids sometimes accuse friends of being mean? What are some better ways to communicate so your friends will want to listen when you tell them about a problem?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Bryson, Age 10: Handling teasing about religion Jul 22, 2023

Ep. 25 – Bryson, Age 10: Handling teasing about religion | Moving past us-versus-them thinking

Bryson wants to know why kids are sometimes mean about religion.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- How many different religions can you name? What do you know about them?

- What examples can you think of in your life of us-versus-them thinking or in-group bias (meaning kids prefer people in their own group compared to another group)? What do you think might help these groups get along better?

- Have you ever been picked on or treated unfairly because of your religion? Have you ever heard someone else getting picked on because of their religion? How did you handle it?

- Do you think kids or adults are more accepting of differences? Why?

- Why is it wonderful that everyone is not exactly like you?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Olivia, Age 13: Fake friends versus real friends Jul 15, 2023

Ep. 24 – Olivia, Age 13: Fake friends versus real friends | Some friendships have limits

Olivia wants to know how to recognize a fake friendship.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think kids sometimes pretend to like someone when they don’t?

- Think of a time when a friend made a mistake that hurt or upset you. How did you handle it? How would you want a friend to respond if you made a mistake?

- How is a limited friendship different from a fake friendship? Do you think it’s possible to like someone and enjoy their company if you only have a limited friendship? Why or why not?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic suggest lowering your expectations in a limited friendship? What do you think that means? How might that help the friendship? How might lower expectations help you?

- What do you think are the essential ingredients of all friendships, whether they’re very close or more limited? (In other words, what are the basic expectations for a friendship that you should never lower?)

- How could mind-reading hurt a friendship? What might happen if you guess wrong about what someone else is thinking or trying to do?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Gage, Age 9: Getting pushed around at recess Jul 08, 2023

Ep. 23 – Gage, Age 9: Getting pushed around at recess | Play fighting versus real fighting

Gage wonders what to do about a kid who throws him to the ground at recess.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS- Have you ever had someone be physically too rough with you? What happened? How did you respond?

- How do you feel about play fighting? Why do you think some kids like it? Why do you think some kids don’t like it?

- Why is it important to be able to tell the difference between play fighting and real fighting? What do you think are the main differences?

- Why might social control (using the group’s disapproval to rein someone in) be an effective way to deal with someone who is being too rough?

- Why is it important to tell a trusted grown-up if someone bigger, stronger, tougher, or more socially powerful than you is picking on you? If you were being bullied, who would you tell?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Scarlett, Age 13: Changing a bad first impression Jun 24, 2023

Ep. 22 – Scarlett, Age 13: Changing a bad first impression | Managing your social reputation

Scarlett wants to know what to do to change someone’s first impression of her.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever changed your mind about what you think of someone and started to like them, even though you didn’t at first? If so, what led to that change?

- What are some reasons why it’s hard to change a first impression?

- Dr. Friendtastic said, “We can’t force someone to like us.” What does this statement mean to you?

- What impression do you think most people have of you when they first meet you? Is that similar or different from how your close friends see you?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Eugene, Age 13: Wanting to be more popular Jun 17, 2023

Ep. 21 – Eugene, Age 13: Wanting to be more popular | Popularity is not the same as friendship

Eugene wonders how to become friends with someone more popular than he is.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Popular kids are socially powerful. What do you think that means? How is that different from being well-liked?

- How can someone be “cool” if they are also unkind? Do you know anyone like that? How do other kids react to that kid?

- Why do you think some kids care a lot about being popular? What do you think about popularity?

- What are some ways that kids could try to increase how well-liked they are?

- Think of the happiest kids you know. Would you say they are very popular, medium popular, or unpopular? Do many, some, or few kids like them? Do they have close friends? What do your observations suggest about how happiness is related to popularity and friendship?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Anna, Age 9: Lying friend Jun 10, 2023

Ep. 20 – Anna, Age 9: Lying friend | Why might a friend not tell you the truth?

Anna is upset about a friend lying to her. What should she do?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever caught a friend in a lie? How did you feel? Why do you think the friend lied to you? How did it affect your friendship?

- Have you ever told a lie to a friend? What got in the way of you telling the truth? Did your friend ever find out the truth? What happened?

- Why do you think Dr. Friendtastic suggested NOT calling a friend a liar even if they did tell a lie? What’s the difference between telling a lie and being a liar? How is a friend likely to react to being called a liar?

- Why do you think Dr. Friendtastic focuses on what Anna could do instead of what her friend did wrong?

- How could you make it easy for a friend to tell you the truth? What responses might make it harder for a friend to tell the truth?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Dr. Friendtastic's Friendship League: Jason Griffith Jun 03, 2023

Ep. 19 – Dr. Friendtastic's Friendship League: Jason Griffith

Dr. Friendtastic’s Friendship League is made up of adults who care about kids and have volunteered to share with you about a friendship rough spot they faced as a kid plus a kind thing a friend did for them. In this episode, Jason Griffith, who was the voice of Sonic the Hedgehog, tells a powerful story about overcoming being bullied. Learn more about Jason at https://www.instagram.com/real_jasongriffith/

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Rich was the ringleader in picking on Jason. Why do you think the other kids joined in on the meanness?

- If you were getting picked on like Jason was, which adults could you go to for help?

- Why did Rich tell the other kids to stop picking on Jason? What do you think Rich felt or realized that changed his mind?

- Have you ever stood up for someone who was getting picked on? If it’s not safe for you to speak up directly, in the moment, what are some other ways you could support someone who is getting bullied?

- What do you think about the fact that the person who was meanest and kindest to Jason when he was a kid was the same person?

- Redemption means freeing ourselves from a bad situation or bad actions. We can always choose to move forward in kinder ways. Rich made a big change, but all of us can work on being kinder in our daily lives. What is one way you could be kinder?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Kai, Age 9: Friends call him bossy May 20, 2023

Ep. 18 – Kai, Age 9: Friends call him bossy | Building great leadership skills

Kai wonders what to do when his friends say he’s being bossy. How can he get his ideas across?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Do you know a kid who seems bossy? Have you ever been called bossy?

- What do you think the difference is between being bossy and being a leader?

- Why do you think it’s a good idea to respond to being called bossy by asking a question, such as “What would you like to do?” How might that question make the other person feel?

- Why do kids sometimes have trouble compromising?

- Have you ever given in and done what a friend wanted, even though you thought your idea was better? Why might that sometimes be a good thing to do? Why is it not a good idea to do that all the time?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Sophie, Age 10: Balancing a best friend and another friend May 13, 2023

Ep. 17 – Sophie, Age 10: Balancing a best friend and another friend | Appreciating different flavors of friends

Sophie is deciding whether to sit on the bus with her close friend or a new friend. Scroll down for discussion questions, a transcript, and how to submit your child's question.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever felt torn between two friends? How did you handle it? What would you do in Sophie’s situation?

- Why is it a good idea to have more than one friend?

- How does Dr. Friendtastic suggest that you can “soften a no”? Why might you want to do that? (Hink: How might the other person feel?)

- Have you ever worried about losing a friend if you spent time apart? What does it mean to “Trust that your friendship is strong enough to handle a bit of time apart”? Why is this important for a friendship?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Sam, Age 13: Joining a new group of friends May 06, 2023

Ep. 16 – Sam, Age 13: Joining a new group of friends | Understanding the difference between fitting in and belonging

Sam wants to know how he can tell if he’s become friends with a new group.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- What are some ways that friendship groups can be more complicated than individual friendships?

- Have you ever tried to change friendship groups? Why did you want to make the change? How did it go?

- Why does Dr. Friendtastic recommend belonging to more than one friendship group?

- Why do you think kids sometimes try to hide or change something about themselves to fit in? How is that different from belonging?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Evie, Age 9: What is a close friend? Apr 29, 2023

Ep. 15 – Evie, Age 9: What is a close friend? | Valuing close friends and other friends

Evie wonders how to tell if she has a close friend.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think it’s important to enjoy casual friends as well as close friends?

- Can you think of someone who is not a close friend but still makes your life more enjoyable? Who is that, and how do they add to your life?

- Can you think of someone who started out as a casual friend and became a close friend of yours over time? How did that happen?

- How about the reverse? Have you ever known someone who used to be a close friend of yours, and then you grew apart? What happened?

- What do you think Dr. Friendtastic meant when she said, “The best way to get closeness is to give it”?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Rowan, Age 12: Feels guilty, wants to make up with a friend Apr 22, 2023

Ep. 14 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: How to apologize well

Rowan feels guilty about doing something mean to his friend. What can he do to repair the friendship?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever felt guilty about something you did (or didn’t do) to a friend? How did you handle that? Were you able to make up with the friend?

- Why do you think some kids have a hard time apologizing? How hard or easy is it for you to apologize?

- Think about a time that someone apologized to you. Do you think they were genuinely sorry? How could you tell?

- Dr. Friendtastic says that guilt can be a useful emotion, even though it’s uncomfortable. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Mara, Age 9: Friend doesn’t want her to have other friends Apr 15, 2023

Ep. 13 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with an Octopus Friend

Mara wonders how to handle a friend who wants to keep her all to herself.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever had an Octopus friend, someone who wanted to keep you all to themselves? How did you handle it?

- Why do you think trying to hold on tightly to a friend because you’re scared of losing them makes it more likely that you’ll lose them?

- Have you ever had a friendship where you liked the other person more than they liked you? How did you feel? What did you do?

- Having more than one friend can be tricky. How do you decide which friend(s) to play with and when?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Adrian, Age 8: Kid bullies him at recess Apr 01, 2023

Ep. 12 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Knowing when to get adult help

Adrian wonders what to do when a kid picks on him every day at recess.

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 a TRANSCRIPT and go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- What is the difference between bullying and ordinary meanness? Why does this matter? How would you respond to these situations differently?

- If someone is not listening when you ask them to stop, why does it make sense to stop trying to make them change what they’re doing and instead focus on taking care of yourself?

- How could standing near an adult or staying near friends make you less likely to get picked on?

- What do you think is likely to happen if you try to get even with someone who was mean to you?

- Why do you think some kids are mean to other kids?

- Have you ever been bullied?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Violet, age 8: Kids say mean things about a friend’s skin color Mar 25, 2023

Ep. 11 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Speaking up for a friend

Violet wonders how to stand up for her friend when other friends make racist comments.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think it’s important to speak up if you hear someone say something mean about your friend? What would you do if you heard someone say something mean about a kid you don’t know well? What would you do if the mean comments were about a kid you know but don’t like?

- What, if anything, have you learned at school about race and racism? What have you learned about those topics from adult family members?

- Do you think it matters whether someone said a racist comment on purpose, trying to be hurtful, versus saying it without realizing the comment is hurtful? Why or why not?

- How do you know when it’s important to talk to an adult about mean or racist comments versus handling the situation yourself?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Isaac, age 7.5: Friend is disrespectful Mar 18, 2023

Ep. 10, Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Speaking up for yourself in kind ways

Isaac wonders what to do when another kid treats him and his toys in disrespectful ways. Does that mean the friendship is over?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. How do you know when your friend’s mistake is something you need to forgive or work through and when it means the end of your friendship?

- Think of a time when you needed to explain to a friend what you were thinking or feeling. What did you say? How did the friend react?

- Why are “I” statements a powerful way to deal with friendship problems? What makes them more effective than a “You” statement? (Hint: How do you think a friend would respond if you talked about a problem by saying “I want…” versus “You always…”?)

- Why do you think it’s sometimes hard for kids to tell friends about what they think, feel, or want? How could NOT telling friends about your thoughts and feelings hurt a friendship?

- Can you think of a situation when NOT telling a friend what you think or feel might be the kind thing to do? For example, if you don’t like your friend’s haircut or outfit, do you need to tell your friend or is it better to keep that opinion to yourself?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Ava, age 9: Told she can't play Mar 11, 2023

Ep 9 – Ava, age 9: Friendly actions in public versus private settings.

Ava has two friends who want to play only with each other. What should she do?

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think Ava’s friends wanted to play only with each other? Why does Dr. Friendtastic think it matters whether they are in a private or public setting?

- Have you ever had someone tell you that you couldn’t play? What did you do?

- What do you think of the rule: “You can’t say anyone can’t play”? Do you think it would help kids be kinder and include others? Why or why not?

- Are there any situations where you think it’s okay not to include someone? What would you do if a kid was being mean or trying to wreck your game?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Blake, age 11: Excluded by friends Mar 04, 2023

Episode 8 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: On the edge of a friendship group?

Blake’s question is about what to do when friends get together without him. This event could mean nothing at all, or it could be a sign of problems in his friendships.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever felt left out of your group of friends? What happened? How did you handle it?

- What are some unhurtful reasons why kids might get together with some of their friends in a group but not all of them?

- Excluding just one kid from a group get-together is likely to hurt that kid’s feelings. If you like that kid, what are some ways you could help that kid feel less hurt? If you don’t like that kid, what are some kinder ways to handle that?

- Why do you think it’s not a good idea to yell at your friends if they get together without you?

- What are some fun ideas of things you could invite a group of friends to do with you?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

Emma, age 11: Friend is a poor sport Feb 25, 2023

Ep. 7 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Choosing how to respond to a frustrating friend.

Emma asks what to do when a friend is a poor sport and can’t handle being “it” in a game of tag.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think kids sometimes have trouble handling winning and losing? What have you found useful to comfort yourself when you lose a game?

- Have you ever had the experience of being the “worst” player in a game? How did you feel? What did you do?

- Do you have a friend who has a habit you find annoying? How have you handled that?

- Has anyone ever told you that something you do is annoying or frustrating? What happened? How did you respond?

- Why do you think a one-on-one conversation about a problem is likely to go better than a whole group confronting someone about what they’re doing wrong?

Books mentioned in the podcast:Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Jayden, age 9: Wondering why kids bully Feb 18, 2023

Episode 6 – Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Empathy blind spots.

Jayden wonders why kids bully other kids.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Have you ever been bullied or seen someone get bullied? Has anyone ever accused you of bullying them? What happened?

- There are lots of different kinds of bullying: physical (such as hitting or kicking), verbal (such as yelling at someone or calling them mean names), relational (such as excluding someone or spreading rumors about them), and cyberbullying (putting mean comments or photos online). Which do you things is worst and why?

- Why do you think kids often don’t speak up when they see bullying? Why do they sometimes not want to tell an adult about bullying?

- Sometimes friends get mad at each other and say or do mean things. Do you think that’s bullying? How can you tell the difference between an argument and bullying?

- Does your school do anything to try to stop bullying? Do you think those efforts are helpful? Why or why not?

Books mentioned in the podcast:Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Edith, age 8: Friend doesn’t do what she wants Feb 11, 2023

Ep. 5, Kids Ask Dr Friendtastic: Watch out for shoulds.

Edith wants to know how to handle things when a friend doesn’t do what she wants.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- What is the “danger of shoulds”? How can “shoulds” hurt a friendship?

- Can you think of a time when a friend did something you didn’t like, but you were able to accept it and move on? Why is that a useful thing to be able to do?

- Have you ever had a friend get mad at you because you did something they didn’t like? How did you and your friend handle it?

- Sometimes it’s important just to accept it when a friend doesn’t do what we want, and sometimes it’s important to talk to the friend about what happened and explain what you want from now on and why it matters to you. How can you tell when to accept and when to speak up?

Books mentioned in the podcast:Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Thomas, age 13: One friend feels left out Feb 04, 2023

Ep. 4 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Dealing with a friendship threesome.

It is hard to make everyone happy in a friendship group of three, so Thomas wonders what he can do.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think it might be easier to have a group of four friends rather than three friends?

- Have you ever felt left out of a small group? How did you handle it?

- If you thought two of your friends were excluding you, you’d probably feel hurt and angry. You might be tempted to yell at your friends and call them mean. Why is that not a smart or kind thing to do? How would your friends be likely to respond if you did that?

- Which do you like best: getting together with just one friend or a group of friends? Why?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Noelle, age 10: Kid tries to wreck game Jan 28, 2023

Ep. 3 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Be curious about what others think or want.

Noelle wonders what she should do when another kid keeps interrupting her game.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why is it usually important to try to get along with people, even if you don’t like them?

- Some kids think it’s funny if other kids get mad and yell at them. What do you think is the best way to deal with these kids?

- Trying to annoy kids is not a good way to join a game. What’s a friendlier way to join in?

- How do you decide when to go to a teacher or other adult about a problem with another kid and when to try to handle it yourself?

Books mentioned in the podcast:Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Brayden, age 12: Friendship with brother Jan 28, 2023

Ep. 2 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: What does it mean to be a good friend?

Brayden wants to be a best friend to his little brother and wonders how he can make that happen.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think it’s sometimes hard for brothers and sisters to get along?

- Do you think it’s easier to be an oldest, middle, or youngest sibling? (“Sibling” means brother or sister.) Why?

- If you have a brother or sister, what fun things do you like to do together?

- Do you have a close friendship with someone who isn’t a sibling but feels like a brother or sister (maybe a cousin or friend)? What makes that relationship so close?

Books mentioned in the podcast:Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

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

Naomi, age 7: Friendship ends over small thing Jan 28, 2023

Ep. 1 - Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic: Different points of view.

Naomi wonders how something small could end a friendship.

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 a TRANSCRIPT go to: https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast/

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- Why do you think kids sometimes say, "I don't want to be your friend anymore!"?

- What can you do if a friend is mad at you?

- How do you handle it when you feel mad at a friend?

- Why is it sometimes hard for kids to apologize (say they're sorry)? Have you ever apologized to a friend?

- Have you ever made up with a friend after an argument? How did you do that? What are some good ways to make up with a friend?

Books mentioned in the podcast:

Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to making and Keeping Friendshttps://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-friendships/

Growing Feelings: A Kids' Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids https://eileenkennedymoore.com/child-development-books/growing-feelings/

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

Subscribe to my NEWSLETTER, DrFriendtastic.substack.com, to get podcast episodes sent to your email plus posts for parents.

Connect with me on social media for more useful and entertaining content for parents:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfriendtastic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKennedyMoore

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drfriendtastic

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

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