Friends sometimes fight. Being friends does not mean you will never argue. A fight does not have to end a friendship. Working through a fight can even make a friendship stronger.

Everyone gets angry sometimes. Anger is a very strong feeling. It does not usually last a long time. When you are upset, you can pause. You can take slow, deep breaths. If a fight gets heated, you can take a break. You can talk again when you have cooled off.

Young children often argue over things, such as who gets to use a toy. They also argue when one friend refuses to share. Taking turns can help friends who disagree. Agreeing to share can help too. Experts say not to call friends names in an argument.

Taking a break to cool down is not a punishment. It helps you calm down before you talk again. Listening to your friend without cutting in helps. Your friend may just want to be heard. Using words to say how you feel helps people handle strong feelings.

Saying sorry is a good way to make up with a friend. A real apology starts with understanding how the other person feels. This is called empathy. Empathy means understanding and sharing what another person feels. An apology is more than saying the words.

Saying sorry is a first step. Helping to make things better shows you care. Making up can be simple. Be kind to your friend and do something fun together. Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can help. A grown-up you trust can help.

Words to know

• empathy: understanding feelings
• apology: repairing connection