Friendships are really important to your happiness. Check out what makes a good friend and how you can meet new friends at school.

A good friend:

• Makes you smile.
• Doesn’t judge you.
• Listens.
• Is kind and respectful to you.
• Is trustworthy and tells you the truth.
• Is great company.

How to make a new friend at school:

At school, you need to get involved with activities you’re interested in. You may join in a handball group at lunchtime or join a sports team or chess club. This is a great way to connect with likeminded people. You will definitely have something to talk about – whether it’s your team’s huge win on the field, or the checkmate you conducted in chess club.

Perhaps on the playground or in class you spot someone sitting on their own. You can walk over and introduce yourself, as this is less intimidating than walking over to a larger group. You can ask to sit with them and strike up a conversation and ask them questions. You may ask what they are interested in or what their favourite subject is. People often like talking about themselves. The most important thing to remember is to be yourself and be the true you.

“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.”

Elbert Hubbard