The Importance of Friendship for Success

“Why would it be natural to turn toward your peers as an adolescent? Because that’s who you’re going to depend on when you leave home. Often, in the wild, a mammal without an adolescent peer group is as good as dead. So connecting with a peer group can feel like a matter of survival.”

Daniel J. Siegel, MD

Friends play a vital role in a child’s success, both in academic success and personal growth. Friendships are not just playmates — they help children learn social skills, such as how to communicate, cooperate and solve problems. Children practise controlling their emotions and responding to the emotions of others in turn. Friendships support the development of compassion and empathy, and friends play a big part of forming a sense of identity outside the family. Here are some three ways friendship can affect your child’s success.

Better Academic Performance 

Kids looking busy

Having a good friend affects a child’s academic performance. Children tend to have better attitudes about school and learning when they have their good friends there. Friends can provide support and motivation for academic goals. Having a study buddy or group can improve focus and organisation while completing homework and studying for tests. Additionally, they can offer different perspectives on assignments and projects. Teachers notice the subtle impact of friendships — performing students tend to hang out with performing students.

Develop Social Skills

Kids sitting together

Having friends can help a child develop social skills, including communication and conflict resolution, which can be important in their future personal and professional relationships. Children learn how to communicate effectively through their interactions with friends. Children who have friends tend to have higher self-esteem and are more confident. When children feel more secure in their environment, they are also more likely to participate in class as well as ask for help when they need it. This can translate to better academic performance and a more positive school experience overall.

Improved Mental Health

Friends provide children with social support and a sense of belonging. They are a sounding board for children to express their thoughts and feelings. This can be especially important for children who are dealing with difficult or stressful situations, such as a family move or a change in school. Children with good friends are happier and have a more optimistic outlook. Friends are a source of fun and entertainment. Children spend a lot of time with their friends, playing games, laughing, and having fun. This is an important part of childhood and is essential for a child’s overall emotional well-being. Even as adults ourselves, many of us have fond memories of our carefree, childhood days.

In conclusion, friends play a vital role in children’s success in life. Encouraging children to make friends and fostering positive social interactions can have a positive impact on their academic performance and overall school experience.


Clement is a resident teacher from Writers Studio, an English tuition centre in Singapore that helps students learn the English language and enhance the knowledge gained from school. Clement graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English & Literature. He is also a certified S&C specialist and professional urban farmer. In his leisure time, he works on world-building and writing stories.  

- Carean Oh

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