Why Social Skills Groups?

Social skills are essential for success in any setting. From the classroom to the workplace, social skills enable individuals to build relationships, communicate effectively, and navigate social interactions. However, many individuals with ASD struggle with social skills.

Talking with others and making friends can be difficult for those with ASD. However, even nonverbal children and teens can benefit from social skills training. Social skills training can help individuals with ASD learn how to:

• Join in on activities
• Start conversations
• Make and keep friends
• Resolve conflicts
• Understand social cues
• Follow rules and expectations
• Manage emotions

Social skills groups can also help reduce some of the other challenges associated with ASD, such as anxiety and depression.

What to Expect in Social Skills Groups

Sessions can take place in one-on-one or group settings and are led by a therapist. There is a wide variety of types of activities that can be used in social skills group, including:

• Role-playing: This activity involves two or more people acting out a social situation. For example, one person may play the role of a cashier and the other may play the role of a customer.
• Video modeling: This activity involves watching a video of someone else demonstrating a social skill. After watching the video, individuals can practice the social skill themselves.
• Social stories: This activity involves reading a story that describes a social situation. Social stories can be used to teach social skills such as how to make friends or how to deal with bullies.
• Practice: This activity involves practicing a social skill in a safe and supportive environment. For example, individuals may practice starting a conversation with someone or asking questions about another person’s interests.

Social skills groups at Rising Above ABA are always part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include applied behavior analysis (ABA) and other evidence-based therapies. In addition, every family receives a “personal trainer” to help them reinforce social skills at home and in the community. Our goal is to help your child thrive in any social situation, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Benefits of Social Skills Groups

Social skills groups can offer a wide range of benefits for individuals with ASD and their families. Some of the potential benefits of social skills training include:

• Improved social skills
• Improved communication
• Reduced social anxiety
• Improved self-esteem
• Improved social interactions
• Improved relationships

Contact Rising Above ABA for Social Skills Groups in Waltham, MA

When part of a comprehensive treatment plan, social skills groups can be an effective intervention for ASD. At Rising Above ABA, we offer social skills groups for children and adolescents in both one-on-one and group settings. To learn more about social skills groups or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at 888.572.7473 or reach out to our team online.