Social Skills Group

group therapy aba children learning coping social skills

We are social beings. Connecting with others and building relationships is part of our nature.

But sometimes, learning how to navigate our social world can be challenging, especially for children with autism and other disabilities.

As a parent or caretaker, it can be frustrating to watch your child struggle. You may feel lost and unsure about how to help them interact or rise above the difficulties. But you are not alone in this process.

Alliance ABA Therapy partners with families to help children become the best version of themselves. And that includes empowering them with the social and emotional skills they need to grow and enjoy their lives.

We offer social skills groups for children with autism and other differences living in Virginia, hosted by Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) professionals.

Got any questions? Read on to learn more about social skills groups and how we can help your child.

What Are Social Skills Groups?

Social skills groups help individuals gain or improve their social abilities. Participants meet regularly with a therapist or team of therapists who educate them through various lessons and exercises.

The goal of a social skills group is to give your child the opportunity to understand and practice how to behave in social situations. This includes but is not limited to communication skills, emotion control, and self-expression.

Does My Child Need to Attend a Social Skills Group?

Children with autism and other differences may feel overwhelmed and confused about social experiences. They may want to connect but not know how to do it. They might also have a hard time picking up cues, understanding what’s expected, and expressing their needs.

Social skills groups provide space and guidance to build your child’s confidence and ability to engage with family, friends, and the world around them.

If your child is experiencing any of the below social challenges, attending a social skills group can help:

Bullying or rejection
Difficulty understanding and connecting with others
Irritability or mood swings
Isolation or withdrawal from relatives and friends
Issues with verbal and non-verbal communication
Problems making friends or fitting in
Outbursts or overwhelming emotions
Trouble focusing or following instructions

How Can Social Skills Groups Help My Child?

Social skills groups are not typical playdates or community activities. They offer a structured, evidence-based, and fun environment led by an expert to help your child boost their social and emotional growth.

Your child will be paired up with children within their age group, developmental needs, and goals. The group’s facilitator will teach them how to navigate social interactions, become aware of expectations, and adapt their actions accordingly.

Some of the lifelong skills your child will gain at a social skills group include:

Behaving in social and community settings (e.g., going to a restaurant or store, visiting a family member)
Cultivating awareness and empathy
Expressing and understanding gestures and body language
Following instructions and rules
Greeting others Having conversations with children and adults
Maintaining eye contact
Making new friends
Managing conflict and emotions
Problem-solving and flexible thinking
Recognizing and interpreting social cues
Sharing and taking turns

Social Skills Groups for Autism at Alliance ABA Therapy

Alliance ABA Therapy offers social skills groups and ABA services to children with autism and other challenges throughout Virginia.

To get started, we will assess your child’s unique skills, preferences, and goals. Then, we will place them in one of our groups and meet weekly in person or online. Each group is led by an ABA professional and includes 5 to 8 children of similar ages, needs, and interests.

Our approach is rooted in ABA therapy and focused on strengthening your child’s interactions and communication. We strive to create a safe and lively space for children to learn, play, and reach milestones along with their peers. Most importantly, we want children to understand why human connection is essential and how they can effectively manage social situations while staying true to their individuality.

During our sessions, we will break down concepts into simple strategies. We will also use different activities to inspire your child, such as games, videos, music, role-playing, and opportunities to practice skills with other children.

Our focus areas include:

Conversational and language skills
Peer relationships
Emotion regulation
Problem-solving
And more!

Join Our Center!

Our doors are open for you and your family.

Contact us to learn more about our ABA Therapy Center and how we can support you and your loved ones to build the future you envision.

Want to tour the facilities? Reach out to book an appointment today!