How to Keep Kids Away From Friends With a Bad Influence

As a parent, protecting your child is of the upmost importance in your life. You want to keep them safe from external dangers that can affect their lives in a negative way. This entails everything from holding their hands as they cross the street to keeping tabs on their after-school activities. If your child has a friend that you feel is leading him down the wrong path, a little parental interference is often needed. Deter bad behavior and keep your child safe from people who are potentially putting your child in danger. It is all part of the process of teaching your child the difference between right and wrong; good and bad.

Instructions

    • 1

      Have a discussion with your child. Keep calm and composed; avoid name calling and shouting, which can turn your child against you. Tell him that you want only the best for him and that certain behaviors might be leading him into dangerous territory. Avoid calling out the bad influence by name as this might cause more controversy between the two families. Let the child and his family know they are not welcome in your home or around your child, only if the potential dangers are very severe.

    • 2

      Practice active adult supervision. Allow the friend around your child, but only when you are engaged in the same activity. Do not simply stand over the action and observe; be involved with it. If the child really has bad intentions, he will likely not stick around if he feels your presence might deter his plans. If you get to know more about the child you may see him as less of a danger.

    • 3

      Encourage your child to find other friends that might be a better influence. Get him involved with other activities and encourage him to attend social events. Do not push too hard on the issue or your child might become suspicious. Whether good or bad influence is suspected be mindful of their activities when together.

    • 4

      Avoid giving them the challenge to rebel. Some children desire to test boundaries and consequences. The more you make something seem out of reach, the more alluring it might become. If you forbid your child from spending time with a certain friend you feel might be leading him astray, he may be more tempted to defy you. Instead, try to keep him busy with productive activities, from homework to family outings, that will distract him from the potentially dangerous friend.

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