Parents in Massachusetts are expressing their anger and frustration after a local preschool allegedly banned children from using the phrase “best friend.” The school argues that the term could be exclusionary and promote the formation of cliques. However, many parents believe the ban is unnecessary and detrimental to their children’s social development.

Christine Hartwell was shocked when her 4-year-old daughter, Julia, came home from preschool visibly upset. Julia told her mother that her teacher had forbidden her from referring to one of her classmates as her “best friend.” The Hartwell family was so appalled that they immediately began searching for a new preschool for Julia.

Hartwell confronted the school administration to better understand the reasoning behind the ban. To her disbelief, the school defended their stance, claiming they had conducted research on the pros and cons of using the term “best friend.” According to them, the ban promotes inclusivity in the classroom and prevents the formation of cliques. Understandably, Hartwell found this explanation to be absurd and believes that children should be allowed to express their feelings freely.

The ban has had a negative impact on Julia, leaving her confused and hesitant to call anyone her best friend. Hartwell expressed her concerns, asking how it is possible to police a four-year-old’s expression of feelings. She firmly believes that allowing children to have best friends creates a sense of security and emotional well-being at school.

The controversy surrounding the ban quickly garnered media attention, causing the school to backtrack on their decision. They claimed that there was never an official policy banning the use of the term “best friend” and suggested that there was a misunderstanding. While it may not have been a written policy, the school clearly discouraged the use of the phrase.

Critics argue that it is normal for children to have best friends and that it is an important part of their social development. Exclusion can be a natural and healthy part of relationships, similar to the exclusivity of marriage. Instead of trying to force inclusivity, perhaps the focus should be on teaching children how to cope with exclusion and navigate social situations.

Ultimately, children need to learn how to make friends, be a good friend, and understand that they may not always be everyone’s favorite. Encouraging kindness, manners, and tolerance is crucial, but it should not mean excluding the concept of best friends.