From Sidelines to Starters: Coaching Kids to Make the First Social Move

If your child struggles with making the first move in social situations, they’re not alone. Many kids wait to be noticed, invited, or included—but learning how to initiate friendship is a powerful skill that can open the door to real social success.

At our social coaching program for children in Boxborough, MA, we use relatable metaphors—like football—to teach social skills for kids in a way that feels fun and familiar. We explain that in friendship, just like in football, there are receivers and quarterbacks. The receiver waits, while the quarterback makes the play. And in the game of making friends, the child who knows how to throw the friendship ball—even something as simple as saying, “Wanna play?”—has a better shot at connection.

Whether your child is shy, unsure, or just needs a little coaching to build confidence, our approach is grounded in social coaching strategies that support positive social development in real-world settings.