Why does my child find it difficult to make friends or interact with others?
Some children want to connect with others but find social interaction confusing, unpredictable or overwhelming. Others may prefer their own company, struggle to join in or find it hard to understand the hidden rules of conversation and play.
Social communication difficulties can affect friendships, confidence and how a child manages in school or everyday life.
What this can look like
Your child may:
- prefer to spend time alone or avoid joining in with others
- prefer certain people who feel more predictable
- find conversations or group situations difficult
- misunderstand jokes, sarcasm or social rules
- take language very literally
- find it hard to read facial expressions, body language or tone of voice
- become upset when interactions feel unpredictable
What may be going on
These difficulties may be linked to social communication differences, autism, language difficulties, anxiety or difficulties understanding non-verbal communication.
Every child’s profile is different. Some children need help understanding others, while others need support expressing themselves clearly in social situations.
How assessment helps
A speech and language assessment looks at how your child uses and understands communication in real-life situations. This may include conversation skills, understanding social rules, interpreting non-verbal cues and managing interaction with others.
How I can help
I provide support to help children understand communication more clearly and interact with greater confidence. This may include direct therapy, parent guidance, school advice or strategies to support friendships and everyday communication.
The aim is not to change your child’s personality, but to help them feel more confident, understood and supported.
Not sure if this sounds like your child?
That’s okay. You do not need to know the reason before asking for help.
Book a free 15-minute consultation and we can talk through your concerns together.