The Friendship Tree

For Adults For Children

Why Real Friends Really Matter

Have you ever felt lonely even when you're around lots of people? Maybe you see everyone online with loads of followers and likes, but something still feels missing. That's because real friendships are different—and they're super important.

Good friends aren't just people you chat with at break time. They're the ones who cheer you up when you're having a bad day, who listen when you need to talk, and who like you for who you are. Having strong friendships can help you feel better inside and remind you what really matters when life feels confusing. They can help you feel less stressed, more confident, and they might even help you make better choices.

The Friendship Tree tool is a fun way to think about what makes a good friend—and what kind of friend YOU want to be. As you explore the tree, you can talk with your parent, teacher, or another adult about what friendship means to you right now.

Great friendships don't just magically appear out of nowhere. They grow when you put in time and effort, just like taking care of a real tree! The Friendship Tree activity is your chance to start building friendships that are respectful, supportive and fun.

Build Your Friendship Tree: Step by Step

  1. Explore the Qualities

    • Check out all the friendship qualities on the screen.
    • Think about what each quality means and which ones feel important to you. Some have extra hints if you need help understanding them.

  2. Pick Your Top 3

    • Choose the 3 qualities that are super important to you — your top favourites.
    • Drag them into the roots of the tree.
      Remember: The roots are what keep friendships strong and steady!

  3. Choose Your Next 7

    • Now, pick 7 more qualities that you think are still important, even if they're not your top 3.
    • Drag these into the branches of the tree.
      The branches are qualities that help friendships grow.

  4. Talk It Through

    • With your supporting adult, chat about things like:
      • Why you chose each quality.
      • What makes your top 3 so special.
      • How these qualities show up in your current friendships.
      • Whether you notice any gaps or qualities you didn't pick and why.
      • What qualities you bring to your friendships.
      • Any qualities you might want to work on or grow?

  5. Remember: There's No Right or Wrong

    • This is your Friendship Tree.
    • It helps you understand what you value and how to build friendships that feel healthy, respectful, and real.
    • Feel free to change your mind as you explore. You can drag qualities in and out and move them around until you're happy with your final tree. What matters most is understanding what's important to YOU! Have fun with it!