Appropriate age group(s):
1st grade and up.

Description of technique:
Your child is expressing an interest to ?ng out?more with friends than with the family. Encourage these wishes by inviting these friends to your house. Create a space where the kids feel comfortable, where their privacy is being respected. Serve snacks/drinks at different intervals to see your child relating to the others.

Observe the friends coming through your door; decide which kids you like and would feel comfortable having your child spend time with. The more fun you present to the group, the more popular your home will become as the ?ng out.?You will be able to feel secure with your child growing and evolving into his or her own person by being part of the process.