Social Skills At School
School can be an especially challenging place for socializing. Eyas Landing therapists work to prepare kids for these situations. For kids at Eyas Landing, our goal is always to have them be in the least restrictive environment that can also provide them with the most beneficial support.
Kids that are in school classrooms with typically developing peers may require extra support to help navigate social situations. Our therapists suggest that the most beneficial outcomes in supporting the child are to be as least intrusive as possible in peer interactions. Think of yourself as a “fly on the wall” and to interfere or provide assistance only when appropriate and necessary.
When To Step In
Typically, this makes the problem situation very clear to the child and they can decide on who should be able to pick the game and how to be fair. Teaching fairness and taking turns is a big part is a big part of learning to socialize, especially in grade school age children. Playing board games are often a great way to help facilitate learning on how to compromise, alternate making choices, sharing, and turn taking. While the child may still need cues or reminders on whose turn it is or how to be fair with peers, being present with the child during these moments is a great way to teach.
Socializing at Lunch and Recess
The other time of the day during school that has little to no structure is recess. Recess is the time during the day where kids can play whatever they want and get a break from being in the classroom. This is also a crucial time for kids to come up with play ideas, initiate play, invite others to play, and engage together in shared ideas. The “fly on the wall” method can also be beneficial during recess. Adults should not be a distraction for the child or the only option for a playmate. Kids should be interacting with same age peers during recess.
These unstructured times during the school day can be especially stressful and anxiety provoking for kids with autism. Being there in a therapeutic way to help support the child in navigating social situations can be extremely beneficial to their confidence in these settings and ability to be successful.
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.
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