Mastering social skills is generally an ongoing endeavor for kids on the autism spectrum. Just when you master one skill, peers get older, change, and it’s time for an upgrade. How do you know if your child is ready to benefit from social skills groups for autism?
In my office, groups promote safe practice opportunities for new skills while encouraging peer support, developing friendships, and providing positive role models. To prepare your child for future success, carefully consider the skills and group dynamics you are looking for.
Here are some questions to ask when choosing the right autism social skills group for your loved one.
1. What skills does my child need?
Social skills groups for autism are a powerful tool to promote the generalization of the skills your child has worked hard on in therapy.
There’s the quote by Stephen Shore, “If you’ve met one person on the autism spectrum, you’ve met one person with autism.” The same concept holds true with groups; it is critically important that you find a group that is working on skills that your child needs.
Practicing social scripts with peers and reading the subtleties of social communication are both important skills. However, they’re also very different skills that not every child on the spectrum will need to practice to the same degree.
When you talk to the provider, be direct and honest about what you’re looking for in a group.
2. How big should the social skills group for autism be?
How independent is your child at applying the skills they are working on? Do they benefit from direct support (a small group)? Is the child able to tolerate a larger group and maintain focus to learn new skills?
The ratio can often impact the financial cost of attendance. However, if your child struggles in a large setting, it might be a better use of resources to seek out a smaller group.
3. How structured should the social skills group be?
Groups vary greatly in structure. Some follow a curriculum and cover a specific topic each week (e.g., compliments, taking turns, dating). Other groups may be more client-driven and based on client needs (e.g., “I’m lonely; how do I make more friends?”).
Both are good options! Structured groups ensure that a variety of topics are covered so that skills are not overlooked. Less structured groups ensure that time is dedicated to relevant topics for your child, which means less wasted time on skills your child may already have.
4. Can I try different social groups?
Be flexible and open to new learning environments. Younger kids generally love social groups, while older kids may not. It’s important that you and your child give the group a solid try.
This often means encouraging your child to stay for more than 10 minutes, even if the new experience is uncomfortable. Advise them to try each group out for at least a couple of sessions.
However, if it doesn’t feel like a good fit, look for a different group or explore different learning options. Each new experience will give you and the child knowledge that will help guide you to the “right fit.”
Paving the way for positive social interactions
Groups are a powerful tool for learning and using new social skills when you find the right fit. They often provide positive reinforcement of the skills your child works on in therapy. They are often thought of as an “in addition to” and not of an “instead of” when it comes to therapy.
Often therapists (psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, etc.)
can provide information regarding resources for social skills groups in your area.
If you struggle to find a group offered in your city/town, talk to your providers. It’s critical that we do all that we can to prepare our kids for the real world. While every child is different, social skills groups can help them adapt to the ever-changing social environments.
This article was featured in Issue 84 – The Journey to Good Health and Well-Being
FAQs
Q: What is a social group for autism?
A: A social group for autism is a structured gathering where autistic individuals practice social interactions in a supportive environment. These groups focus on communication, teamwork, and relationship-building skills through guided activities.
Q: How do you teach social skills in autism?
A: Social skills in autism are taught using structured methods, such as modeling, role-playing, and visual supports. Strategies such as social stories and video modeling help individuals understand and practice appropriate social behaviors.
Q: How do you start an autism social group?
A: To start an autism social group, define its goals, age range, and skill focus, then find a suitable location and trained facilitators. Activities should be structured, engaging, and tailored to participants’ needs to encourage positive social interactions.
Q: What is social skills therapy for autism?
A: Social skills therapy for autism is a structured intervention that helps individuals develop communication, emotional regulation, and relationship-building skills. Therapists use evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral strategies and peer-based practice to improve social interactions.
References
Dekker, V., Nauta, M. H., Timmerman, M. E., Mulder, E. J., van der Veen-Mulders, L., van den Hoofdakker, B. J., … & de Bildt, A. (2019). Social skills group training in children with autism spectrum disorder: a randomized controlled trial. European child & adolescent psychiatry, 28, 415-424. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00787-018-1205-1
Jonsson, U., Olsson, N. C., Coco, C., Görling, A., Flygare, O., Råde, A., … & Bölte, S. (2019). Long-term social skills group training for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a randomized controlled trial. European child & adolescent psychiatry, 28, 189-201. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00787-018-1161-9
Chester, M., Richdale, A. L., & McGillivray, J. (2019). Group-based social skills training with play for children on the autism spectrum. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 49, 2231-2242. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-019-03892-7
More tips and solutions for autism parents and caregivers:
- Peer Coaching Circles: One Parent’s Path to Support
- Applying Naturalistic Interventions in the Home with Your Child with Autism
- Can Music Help a Child with Autism Cope When Stuck at Home?
- Simple Toys to Help Your ASD Child’s Continued Development
- Coping Strategies to Help You Maintain Your Child’s ABA Therapy
- Interesting Ways Occupational Therapy Can Help Parenting Stress
- How Do You Choose An Autism Specialist?
- Simple Ways To Improve Eating Habits When Your Child Has ASD
- Simple Ways to Help Relieve Your Child’s Stress: Calming Cookie Dough
