Encourage solution-focused thinking in kids and leave the solution in their control

Helen O’Callaghan explores ruptures in child friendships.

Your eight-year-old is upset because she has fallen out with her friend. Should you stay out of it or try to help?

Clinical psychologist Joanna Fortune ( www.solamh.com) says by age seven, children have worked out who is like them, who is different and how they feel around particular people.