Social interaction is a big part of everyday life — from saying “hello” to a classmate to working as part of a team. But for some children, these simple interactions can feel challenging or confusing. Whether it’s due to shyness, anxiety, ADHD, autism, or other developmental concerns, many kids need extra support to build strong social skills.
That’s where Social Skills Groups come in.
These small, guided sessions help children develop the communication and interpersonal skills they need to build friendships, succeed in school, and feel more confident in social settings.
What Are Social Skills Groups?
Social Skills Groups are structured group therapy sessions designed to teach children how to interact effectively with others. Led by professionals — such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, or counselors — these groups provide a safe and supportive space for kids to:
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Learn about social norms and expectations
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Practice real-life social situations
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Get feedback from peers and adults
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Build self-awareness and confidence
Each group is typically made up of 4 to 8 children of similar age and developmental level, allowing for peer learning and practice in a low-pressure environment.
What Do Kids Learn in Social Skills Groups?
Social skills groups cover a wide range of essential topics, such as:
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Starting and maintaining conversations
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Making and keeping friends
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Understanding nonverbal communication (like body language and facial expressions)
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Managing emotions and frustration
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Sharing, turn-taking, and teamwork
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Resolving conflicts respectfully
Learning these skills in a group setting helps kids apply them more naturally in school, at home, and in everyday life.
Who Can Benefit from Social Skills Groups?
These groups are ideal for children who:
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Struggle to make or keep friends
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Have difficulty reading social cues
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Are shy, anxious, or avoid social situations
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Have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or other developmental delays
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Have speech or language challenges that affect their communication
Even children without a diagnosis may benefit if they’re having a hard time socially or could use a little boost in confidence.
What Happens During a Session?
Every social skills group is a little different, but most sessions follow a structure that includes:
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Check-in and group discussion
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Skill-building lesson (e.g., “How to ask someone to play”)
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Role-playing or games to practice the skill
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Real-time feedback and encouragement
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Wrap-up and homework for practice at home
Parents are often given strategies and tools to reinforce skills outside of the group, which helps kids generalize what they’ve learned into daily life.
Benefits of Social Skills Groups
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✅ Improved communication and self-expression
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✅ Increased confidence in social settings
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✅ Stronger friendships and peer relationships
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✅ Better emotional regulation and problem-solving
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✅ Reduced social anxiety and isolation
Over time, children in social skills groups tend to become more comfortable, connected, and capable — both in school and in everyday interactions.
How to Find a Social Skills Group
If you think your child could benefit, talk to their teacher, school counselor, or pediatrician. You can also search for local providers such as:
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Pediatric therapy clinics
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Speech and occupational therapy centers
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Mental health practices
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Autism support organizations
Be sure to ask about the facilitator’s credentials, group size, age range, and goals. A good fit is key to success.
Final Thoughts
Every child deserves to feel confident and connected. Social Skills Groups offer the guidance and practice children need to build meaningful relationships and navigate the world around them. Whether your child needs a little boost or more targeted support, these groups can provide the tools — and encouragement — to thrive.
