#kids Kids and Friendships - Supporting Social Skills Ages 5–10 Friendship is not a nice-to-have in childhood. They are a developmental necessity. Research is clear: kids and friendships are deeply connected to academic performance, mental health, emotional intelligence and long-term wellbeing. Children who struggle with friendships are more likely to experience difficulties at school, feel lonely and lose confidence in themselves as social beings. And yet, friendship is one area parents feel least equipped to help with. https://www.parnthub.com/2026/03/kids-and-friendships.html