A Happy Visit

1. 1

   When you arrive at a friend’s home, greet your friend warmly and give your child time to watch from beside you.

2. 2

   Follow your child’s signals. Move closer if they show interest, and step back with them if they seem uneasy.

3. 3

   If your child feels shy or worried, hold and reassure them. Wait until their body relaxes before offering another chance to approach.

4. 4

   When your child chooses to move closer or respond, build on that small step. Your friend might roll a toy toward them or join a familiar game.

5. 5

   Children warm up to new people in different ways. Watching, hiding close to you, or edging forward slowly are all valid ways to become familiar.

What to notice

• Watches you interact with your friend, then gradually moves closer Relationships with Adults
• Responds with a sound or movement when the new adult greets them Attending and Understanding

Tips

• Bring a familiar toy or comfort item. Something known can make a new place feel less unfamiliar.
• Once your child looks relaxed, give them a little space to respond to your friend’s invitation or begin an interaction.

Developmental benefits

• Social/Emotional: Staying close, responding to uncertainty, and giving your child time to approach a new adult helps them adjust to an unfamiliar setting at their own pace.