Increasing Your Child’s Social Participation Skills
Our social skills allow us to develop and foster connections with others. They help us develop a sense of belonging and self-confidence. This may include verbal and non-verbal communication, such as using appropriate body posture, eye-contact, language, gestures, greetings, and manners. Children often learn their skills by watching adults model these behaviors and language. However, some children may need more support to pick up on, interpret, and apply these social skills. Here are a few ways you can help your child as they continue to develop their social skills.
- Engage as a family. Engage in shared activities as a family that build on the strengths and abilities of your child. Consider having a family game night, go on an outdoor scavenger hunt, or engage in pretend play or a craft as a family. This creates a safe space to practice skills such as turn taking, waiting, asking questions, and asking for help.
- Model positive behavior. Listen to your child’s concerns, demonstrate problem solving, and model positive social interaction skills. Some children need more support when it comes to understanding and responding to others. Provide your child with examples of what they can say in different social situations so that they know just how to respond.
- Participate in community events. Active participation in events such as PTA, school-sponsored activities, and recreational facilities will help build a sense of belonging for your child and help foster friendships.
- Participate in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities that interest your child and use their strengths will help build their confidence.
- Provide leadership opportunities. Encourage your child to contribute to their community in notable ways, such as assisting a neighbor with chores or participating in community clean up days.
Eyas Landing is a therapy clinic with a mission to provide evidence-based and family-centered therapy services for children, adolescents, and their families. The primary goal is to deliver relationship-based interventions within the most natural environments and to empower families to reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, our highly educated, compassionate staff dedicates time and expertise to create experiences that maximize therapeutic outcomes. The strength, determination, and perseverance of our clients are evident as they succeed in therapy, and ultimately in their daily lives.
Eyas Landing offers a wide range of comprehensive services including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA Therapy, Social Work, Family Therapy, and Neuropsych testing. Services are provided throughout the Chicagoland area via Telehealth, In-Home, and in our state of the art clinic.
Want to learn more or you have a specific question? Feel free to connect with us here!
