How Can I Help?
Be the classmate who makes a difference
You can help make your friend's school day better. Be kind, be patient, and try these simple ways to help them feel safe and included.
Do this
Six ways to be a great friend
Each of these things can help a classmate feel less worried and more like they belong.
Invite them in
Invite them to play or join an activity, even if they do not feel ready to talk.
Give them time to respond
Silence is okay. Ask a question, then wait patiently. A few extra seconds can help your friend feel ready to answer.
Accept other ways to communicate
Writing, gestures, pointing, or nodding all count. Any way they choose to connect is a real answer.
Be a consistent, kind buddy
Sit with them at lunch, pair up for group work, or walk together during transitions. Showing up matters.
Include, don’t spotlight
Welcome them into the group without making them the center of attention or the focus of every question.
Protect them
Stand up if others tease or pressure them. A quiet “they’re good, let’s go” keeps things safe.
Please avoid
Things that make it harder
These are common — and usually well-meant — but they raise anxiety and make speaking feel even harder.
- Saying “Just talk.”
- Asking “Why are you so quiet?”
- Answering for them without permission.
- Staring, teasing, gossiping, or turning their silence into a joke.
- Forcing them to perform, read aloud, or speak in front of others.
Try this instead
Kind, low-pressure things you can say
Not sure what to say? Try these friendly phrases. They give your classmate an easy way to answer without feeling pressured.
“Want to work together?”
“You can write your idea if you want.”
“Take your time.”
“Would you rather point or write it down?”
“Want to sit with us?”
Being a good friend is already helping.
You might not hear a “thank you” out loud — and that’s okay. Your patience and kindness are felt, even in the quiet.
Think you know what to do?
Try these classroom situations and see how your choices can help a classmate feel safe and included.