Qualities of a Good Friend

 A student asked me if there is a difference between a classmate and a true friend. I decided to poll my 7 and 8 year old and find out what they think the qualities of a true friend. Following are their responses: 

  • When you need them to listen, they listen. 
  • They are kind to everybody.
  • They don't say, "I have a better friend, so you can be my side friend."
  • They include everyone.
  • They are there when you need them
  • They are nice.
  • They understand why you are doing something.
  • They are caring. 
  • They will stand up for me if I need help.
  • They are friendly, kind, respectful and responsible.
  • They are willing to help.
  • They are not mean, they don't say bad words, they don't people around, and they treat people nicely.
  • They don't get in talking fights.
  • They make sure they are not leaving people out. 
  • They don't take people away from the person they were playing with.
  • They tell a supervisor if a problem is going wrong.
  • They don't lie about playdates.
  • They don't tease people.
  • They don't yell.
  • They don't get all up in your face. 
  • They don't be like all pushy. 
  • They don't say mean things about you or your family.
  • They don't bully. 
  • They say sorry if they accidentally bump into you.
  • They stop doing something annoying if you ask them to stop. 
  • They are always nice in the classroom and follow instructions.
  • If someone falls down, they help them up.
  • They don't interrupt the person who is talking and they don't blurt.
  • If they promise to play with you, they do.
  • They try to stop bullying if they see it.
  • If someone gets hurt, they help them instead of just walking past.
  • They play with me everyday.
  • They don't get mad at me. 
  • They treat me the way I want to be treated. 
  • They will be my friend forever, because that would be good. 
  • I want them to be kind to me and have a happy life and a good time. 
  • They don't tattle tale on me. 
  • They don't push me. 
  • They stand up for others.
  • They don't talk rude to me. 
  • They show me respect and they are someone I can trust. 
  • They are someone I can play with if I feel sad. 
  • They are a good listener and they don't spread rumors about me.
  • They are funny and fun. 
  • They ask if you are OK if you fall down. 
  • They say hello, even if they don't know you. 
  • They are being quiet when I am trying to focus. 
  • If someone is crying, they ask, "What's the matter?"
  • They let people play with their toys when they are really sad or if family doesn't have enough money to afford it. 
  • They let you have the first turn. 
  • They are forgiving.
I think my students have good insights about what makes a true friend. 

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