Could you find ways to have him "play" with this friend where it isn't as "hard" on him? Playdates at places like the mall play areas, bouncy houses or other places where they can be together but be doing something fun that takes the pressure off of him. My boys love playdates where they get to be doing something. The activity helps gloss over any awkwardness.

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Hi there, my son is now 13 years old and is only just making and keeping friends. He's had friends every now and then but most of them couldn't cope with the way my son behaved and spoke to them so they never lasted long. As a parent it was important to me that he had friends, but for my son, I don't think he actually cared too much about it until he was about 12. Now he's older he can understand how some of his behaviours affect the people around him and is making a real effort to avoid his "triggers". His friendships are slowly deepening with time, but it's a very hard road for them. Because of the lack of friends, I spent a great deal of time with my son, and yes it is hard trying to be a parent and a friend, but in the end we have a better relationship. I've also found that involving him in outside activities and hobbies is a lifesaver, ones where they are physical such as sport or scouts. There is no pressure to be friends with anyone in particular, it's just a way where he can spend a few hours with kids his own age and feel as if he's been "out". At times it's broken my heart to watch weekend after weekend go by with no one calling him or inviting him to birthdays and I can understand where you are coming from, but in the end I think it's better not to worry about it. He will get there in the end, he'll make friends in his own time and as long as he is loved and appreciated at home and by family, he'll be fine. Hope this helps a little.

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thanks for the comments, and I see your point, but indeed it is very hard to think about him not having friends.

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