As parents, one of our biggest concerns is ensuring our kids feel accepted and connected, especially at school. The fear of your child being excluded or not having friends can be overwhelming. It’s a common worry, and for many parents, it brings sleepless nights and constant second-guessing. Studies show that 1 in 5 children report feeling lonely or left out at school, which can have lasting effects on their confidence, mental health, and academic success.
At Lion+Owl, we believe in creating a world where every child feels brave, confident, and included—whether that’s through our clothing or the conversations we start. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of social exclusion on kids and offer practical ways to help your child navigate friendships and school life.
The Impact of Feeling Left Out
Loneliness is a growing concern in schools today. According to the National Survey of Children's Health, 20% of children aged 6-17 report feeling isolated from their peers. Social exclusion can lead to a range of emotional and psychological issues, from lowered self-esteem to increased anxiety. It can even affect their academic performance, making it harder for them to concentrate, participate in class, and feel motivated to succeed.
For transgender, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ children, the fear of being excluded can be even greater. Studies show that 78% of transgender students report feeling unsafe at school because of their gender expression, leading to higher rates of bullying, social isolation, and mental health challenges.
How to Help Your Child Fit In at School
The good news? As a parent, there are many ways you can help your child build the friendships and social confidence they need to thrive.
1. Encourage Shared Activities
One of the easiest ways for kids to make friends is through shared activities. Help your child get involved in after-school clubs, sports, or hobbies that align with their interests. Whether they love art, music, science, or gaming, finding like-minded peers through common passions creates a natural pathway to friendship. Research shows that children involved in extracurricular activities are more likely to form meaningful friendships and feel connected to their school community.
2. Foster Open Communication
It’s important to keep the lines of communication open with your child. Ask them about their day, how they feel about school, and any concerns they might have about their friendships. Active listening is key—sometimes, just being there and validating their feelings can help them feel more supported and less alone. This builds trust and helps you better understand how to guide them.
3. Create Opportunities for New Friendships
If your child is struggling to make friends at school, consider setting up playdates or encouraging them to participate in activities outside of school, like community groups or youth organizations. Smaller, more intimate settings can help ease social anxiety and allow your child to form connections at their own pace.
4. Support Their Self-Expression
For transgender and non-binary kids, feeling like they belong often starts with having the freedom to express themselves authentically. Clothing can play a huge role in this. At Lion + Owl, we’re proud to offer gender-inclusive apparel that empowers kids to feel confident in who they are. When kids feel good in what they wear, it can boost their self-esteem and help them approach social situations with more confidence.
Call to Action: Let’s Build a More Inclusive School Experience Together
No child should ever feel left out or alone at school. As parents, educators, and communities, we all have a role in fostering inclusive environments where every child can feel brave, confident, and accepted for who they are.
At Lion + Owl, we’re committed to creating clothing that supports all kids—especially those who feel like they don’t fit in. Our gender-inclusive, sensory-friendly designs are created to help every child feel comfortable and proud of who they are.
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Jeff Bender, Founder Lion+Owl