Every parent hopes their child will find friends who are kind, honest, thoughtful, and grounded. We want them surrounded by people who value learning, stand up for what’s right, support others when it matters, and respect boundaries. The thought of them losing themselves to fit in, or being steered toward choices that erode their character, is unsettling.
Watching my daughter navigate this stage, I’ve seen how intense and unpredictable high school friendships can be. Puberty carries a storm of emotions and self-discovery, and the need to belong shapes much of how she views herself and her peers. Interests shift, dynamics change, and encouragement can quickly turn into pressure.
We raise our kids with strong values: to know their worth, to show kindness without being pushovers, and to walk away when something doesn’t sit right. Letting go of the wrong people is difficult at any age, but especially in adolescence, when friendships feel like the center of everything. Watching her step away with self-respect is a source of pride. She is forming a circle that will carry into adulthood, built on integrity, empathy, and genuine connection.
Some friendships will fade, and that is part of growing up. The lesson that matters is recognising what is real: bonds rooted in trust, consistency, and care. The ones that don’t just survive the twists and turns of youth, but emerge stronger.