Some kids learn to say “please” and “thank you” and to wait their turn by watching others. But kids with learning and attention issues might not pick up on common social interactions simply through observation. If your child struggles with social skills, a social skills group could help.
Social skills include far more than the ability to communicate with other people. They’re crucial to making friends, succeeding in school and, later in life, getting and keeping a job.
What are social skills groups?
Social skills groups are small groups (typically two to eight kids) led by a speech therapist who teaches the kids how to interact appropriately with others their age. A speech therapist might also lead a social skills group in your child's school.
What are the benefits of social skills groups?
Kids can learn important skills that they’ll use the rest of their lives. This includes learning how to:
- Greet others
- Start a conversation
- Respond to others
- Maintain a conversation
- Share and take turns
- Ask for help
- Problem solve
- Understand other people's perspectives
- Control emotions
- Make friends