Do you remember the first friend you lost? I do. My best friend in grammar school decided I was not popular enough. I was too shy to be considered “cool.” She distanced herself from me so she could become more popular, and I was left with one less friend. And let me tell you, it hurt.

As a mom, you are in a unique position to offer comfort when your child loses a friendship. Here are 5 reasons why it might happen—and how you can help ease the pain.