How old/what grade are these kids?

I agree with the poster who asked what is the boy interested in and make sure that he is involved in activities that support that interest. In that way he will meet others who share the same things he likes. If he plays an instrument, he can join the band. If he sings, he can join the choir. I don't know about Boy Scouts since I do not know his age; however, that's another option to meet friends.

What age?

I feel for you and your son, op, but remember that it is still early in the school year - and, unlike the summer when kids have lots of free time, kids are more scheduled during the school year so there is not as much opportunity to nust naturally meet kids in the neighborhood, at the park, etc. How old is your son? You mentioned that he plays an instrument- what about joining the school band? Or boy scouts? I think that a specific activity is a way to get to know kids better than in class. Fwiw, my kids always talk about the new students in their classes - they love meeting the new kids!

We moved into our neighborhood last spring from over seas (we are american) DS is very well traveled and mature for his age, speaks another language, plays multiple instruments. He met a neighbor and they bonded well over the summer--it was a great summer for both of them - lots of camping, beach, bike riding, general roaming and carousing, you name it. Then school began -- the neighbor boy is 2 grades older and won't play w/DS because of peer pressure. DS needs to make other friends but this awkward-inbetween-ness is getting US down. I say 'us', because as you know, we're not happy if our kids are not happy.

Sigh. i'm sure he'll come right but i feel badly because i moved him around, and now this.

Thanks for listening.