Many of us can find it hard to talk to new people, especially if you’ve moved home and have to go to a completely new school. But meeting new people doesn’t have to be scary. Have a look at some of our ideas to help you start building new friendships at school.
1. Use conversation starters to get chatting
Becoming friends with someone can start with something as simple as asking a question – and if you’re new to school, then it’s likely you will have a lot of questions.
2. Spend time with your friend’s friend groups
Once you start talking more to someone they will be able to introduce you to their other friends in school. It’s always helpful if you have someone to introduce you and can join in their conversations.
3. Speak to someone who’s on their own
If you’ve just arrived at a new school on your own then you understand how it feels. If you speak to someone who is sitting alone they might appreciate that you approached them.
4. Look for common interests
Having something in common with someone won’t automatically make you best friends, but people tend to open up about things they’re passionate about.
5. Ask open questions
Open questions are questions which can have a number of responses. Closed questions are questions which are limited to a few set answers like yes or no. When chatting to people, try to use open questions to encourage discussion and if you get asked a question, try to respond without just giving one word answers.
