Expert advises parents not to overdo it when helping their children make friends: "A lot of parents go too far."

Recent data from the University of Michigan reveals that nearly 20% of parents believe their child lacks or has insufficient friends, while over half, 52%, report that at least one factor, such as shyness or social awkwardness, hinders their child's ability to form connections.

The difficulty of observing your child struggle socially is expressed by Dr. Sarah Clark, a research scientist at the University Of Michigan department of pediatrics.

She says it's difficult to view the train crash in slow motion.

It is understandable to want to assist them in forming relationships, but it is important to exercise caution in the level of involvement.

"Clark says that you want to facilitate but not take over, and he believes that many well-intentioned parents go too far."

Here are two tips for helping your child make more friends without overstepping.

1. Put them in proximity of other kids

To help your child feel more comfortable socializing with their peers, consider taking them to a busy park or finding a parent with a child the same age as yours to plan a playdate.

If your child is shy and tends to withdraw in large groups, perhaps a crowded jungle gym isn't the best place for them to thrive. Instead, Clark suggests enrolling them in a class or another small group activity.

Letting go is necessary when kids are nearby.

""The parent should step out and let the kids decide to what extent they want to play with each other," Clark says."

2. Model what it's like to be a good friend

Children often imitate actions they observe, such as saying "I'm sorry" after bumping into someone.

Friendships require give-and-take, and if your child observes you assisting a neighbor or accepting to watch a friend's pet, they will comprehend how to be a friend.

"Clark says that friends consider each other's emotions and perform small actions to lift people up. For instance, helping someone at the grocery store whose bag has spilled is a simple act that parents can do. Afterward, they can express to their kids, 'This is what being a good friend entails.'"

Rewritten: Naming when someone has been a good friend to you can help your child understand what it takes to maintain a platonic relationship.

It is challenging, according to Clark, to refrain from interfering when a child does not fully grasp something.

Parents' excessive involvement can hinder their children's ability to develop social skills, including making friends and being a friend, she explains.

Observing your child struggle to engage in play or communication with someone can be agonizing, but it can also foster development.

"Parents who are well-intentioned may feel embarrassed when their own child behaves in a bratty manner, but this is a natural part of the learning process. If parents intervene and resolve the issue, children may not fully understand the sequence of events that unfolded, which could lead to unintended consequences such as a friend becoming angry or unwilling to play. It is important to allow children to learn from their mistakes and understand the consequences of their actions."

You can guide someone to a potential friend, but you can't compel a bond.

To become a successful and confident communicator, enroll in CNBC's online course, "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." Our program will teach you how to speak clearly and confidently, manage your nerves, choose the right words, and use effective body language to make a great first impression. Sign up now.

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.