Encourage Social Skills Development

I take great pride in sharing with you the information that professionals know about how to encourage social skills development in people, especially those with lagging executive function skills. Consequently, I believe that the more information you are given, the better you can to support it.

Be Patient: Transformation happens very slowly.

As a parent, you are there all the time and their partner, but it can be confusing for both of you to navigate the social terrain. Further, this process requires an abundance of patience!

Move from “No!!” to “Hmmm?…..“

Bridge to Betterment In my book, I describe Bridge to Betterment, the process of  moving from “no thank you!” – to realization – to change. Your role as a social skills coach is not to push, but rather to hold a mirror to their actions and help them understand how change can happen. You will constantly need to help them see things… and this is where open ended questions and reflective listening come into play. As you move through the stages of change… you will hear them say, “I kinda wish I had done that differently…” These nuggets can provide huge information as to how they think. Model by your own actions and talk about how communication and friendship skills requires action. Discuss the stages of friendships and learn more about which stage they are in with each friend. Use questions and reflective listening to help your child or student to agree, disagree, tell clarifying information and to realize what they are doing. Find the carrot of who they want to be and link this to social skills and friendships. Remember – Connection requires action!    #ConnectionMatters

Social Skills Deeper Dive

More actionable advice, exercises and videos can be found in the Store

How to Coach Your Child – Kids need good role models. Skills like listening and communication are critical. This exclusive program for parents teaches how to coach your kids for life.Adults with ADHD Social Skills Training: How to Get Along with Everyone – 2-Part Seminar with Caroline Maguire – Starting December 7, 2021Rusty Social Skills Bundle – Everything you need to help students return to the classroom for the development of critical social skills.Coaching Conversations Video Course – How to use the lessons in Why Will No One Play with Me? in everyday life using real people and real scenariosFrom “Hi” to a Full Conversation – How to adapt conversation starters to initiate small talk.Joining a group Infographic – Make joining a group less intimidating – and more fun!Building a Conversation Infographic – Learn how to engage in reciprocal give-and-takeSteps for Joining a Group Video – Step by step details to comfortably and successfully join a groupHow to Read the Room as an Adult – Managing perceptions and engaging successfullyWhy Will No One Play with Me? How to SEL – HOW TO help children build social skillsHow to Help the Socially Awkward KidDeeper Dive: How to Keep the Social in Social Distancing How Does Social Skills Development Occur? Everyone is Working on Something Do I need to Teach My Kid How to Make Friends?

Everyone is Working on Something

Do I Need to Teach My Kid How to Make A Friend? I Never Needed That Kind of Support, Why Does He?

How to Nurture Social Emotional Development in Isolation