Why a group?
Some skills can only be practised with other kids. Waiting for a turn, reading a friend’s face, joining a game that has already started, losing gracefully: an adult can explain these, but children learn them by doing them with peers. A small group gives your child that practice, with staff right there to prompt, model and point out what went well.
What children practise
- Conversation. Greetings, asking and answering questions, staying on topic, taking turns talking.
- Playing together. Sharing, following game rules, joining in and inviting others to play.
- Teamwork. Working toward a shared goal, compromising, solving problems together.
- Feelings. Naming emotions, noticing how others feel, using calming strategies.
- Flexibility. Coping when plans change, when they lose, or when a friend says no.
How groups run
Groups are small and matched by age and skill level, so every child gets attention and is with peers at a similar stage. Each session follows the same routine: a warm-up, a short lesson on one skill, practice through games and activities, then a wrap-up. Staff use positive reinforcement and track each child’s progress toward their own goals.
Many children join a group alongside 1:1 ABA therapy, so skills learned one-on-one get practised with peers. Others join a group on its own. We’ll help you decide at your free visit.
Is a group right for my child?
A group may help if your child:
- wants friends but finds it hard to join in or keep a conversation going
- struggles with turn-taking, sharing or losing a game
- has big reactions when routines or plans change
- does well with adults but finds other children harder
- is getting ready for the social side of daycare or school
Questions about social skills groups
How big are the social skills groups?
Groups are kept small so staff can coach each child during activities, and children are matched by age and skill level. Ask us about current group sizes and openings.
Can my child join a social skills group without doing 1:1 ABA therapy?
Yes. Some children attend a group on its own, and others combine it with 1:1 ABA therapy. An RBA will help you choose based on your child’s goals.
Can I use OAP funding for social skills groups?
Our services are eligible for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) funding, and some workplace benefit plans also cover social skills groups. We can help you check your options before you enrol.