LIFE

Dear Carol, 

I can't wait for school to be over, but I'm also worried because I won't see my friends every day. And I'm going to camp, which I've never done before. 

-  How Can I Make New Friends?

Dear How Can I Make New Friends?,

The best way to make friends is to be friendly. Smile, say hi, give compliments, ask questions, be kind and easygoing. Some girls feel it's important to be assertive and demanding and, yes, this may serve them in some arenas, but when it comes to making friends, thoughtful and caring carry the day. People appreciate girls who are good at sports, but they also appreciate good sports. Remember too that conversation should be a two-way street. It's good to talk but also to listen. So if someone asks you where you're from, ask where they're from. If they ask about your pet, ask about theirs. Camp counselors will help stir up friendships, and this may be a great opportunity to sign up for activities that appeal to you—and meet others who share your interests. Some campers will already have friends from previous years, but many others will be first-timers on the lookout for new friends—like you.

Carol Weston is the author of 16 books including Girltalk, Speed of Life and Ava and Pip. Follow her on Insta @carolwestonnyc and visit carolweston.com

Still need friendship advice? Read more Dear Carol below:
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We want to hear from you! Go here to submit questions to Carol about every sticky sitch life throws at you.

by GL | 6/17/2023