When you say sorry, you hope your friend will feel better. So when a friend says sorry to you, you can help them too.
Key idea
When someone says sorry, you can say “Thank you for saying sorry” or “It's okay,” and then let it go.
Why it works
Saying sorry is hard. A kind answer tells your friend, “I heard you.” Then you can both feel better and play again.
Worked example: Let's practice
Ruby says sorry for an unkind word. Leo still feels a little sad. What can he say that is kind and true?
- Leo does not have to pretend he feels fine.
- “Thank you for saying sorry” is kind, and it is true.
- He can add how he feels, if he wants to.
Answer: “Thank you for saying sorry. I'm still a little sad.”
Common mistake
Staying cross after a friend says sorry. Or thinking you must say “It's okay” when you still feel hurt. “Thank you for saying sorry” is always kind and always true.
For the grown-up. Practice with stuffed animals: one says sorry, your child answers for the other. Let them know it is fine to still feel upset; accepting an apology does not mean the feeling has to vanish.