Wellness Tips

When addressing your child about friends whose behaviours may not align with family values, the key is to focus on behaviours, not individuals. Ask your child about specific behaviours witnessed. Explore their feelings and thoughts without passing judgment on the friends.

Encourage reflection by asking questions like, "How did you feel when your friends asked you to mess up someone' bag?" or "What do you think about messing up someone's bags?" Emphasise your family values and discuss how certain behaviours may not align. Avoid labeling friends as "bad people" and express concern about specific actions instead. Criticising individuals can inadvertently push your child towards them and away from you, especially if these friends hold a certain kind status or they have something that is attractive to your child. 

Take issue with the behaviours, not with the friends. Highlight the importance of making decisions based on shared values.

Counsellors: Mr Daniel Tan, Ms Lori Ercan, Ms Zanthe Ng