How do I help my preschooler navigate conflicts with friends?

Preschoolers are just beginning to understand other people's perspectives, so conflicts over toys, turns, and rules are developmentally normal and actually important for social learning. Resist the urge to immediately intervene — give them a moment to try solving it themselves. When you do step in, narrate what happened from both perspectives: 'You wanted the truck. Maya wanted the truck too. You're both upset.' Coach them through solutions: 'What could you do so you both get a turn?' Teach a simple conflict script: 'Stop. I don't like that. Let's take turns.' Avoid forcing apologies before a child understands what they're apologizing for — instead, guide them toward empathy: 'Look at Maya's face. How do you think she feels?' Consult your pediatrician if your child consistently struggles with peer interaction.