DEAR ABBY: I'm an 11-year-old girl. I just started middle school (sixth grade). The girls in my class have been together since pre-K.
Although I'm new to the school, I knew two of the girls from before. They are very nice and have accepted me. The problem is that they are the "leaders" of two separate groups. During my lunch/recess they each want me to sit with them. How do I do this without hurting any feelings? -- NEW KID AT SCHOOL
DEAR NEW KID: As you said, you are new to the school. For the time being, alternate sitting with each group. Be friendly to everyone, regardless of which group they belong to. And while you're at it, do the same with classmates who aren't members of either group. In time, you will figure out where you are more comfortable.