Social skills are the building blocks for successful relationships — with family, friends, teachers, and peers. For children and adolescents, learning how to communicate, share, and cooperate is essential for emotional well-being and confidence.
Sometimes, kids need extra help developing these skills. Therapy can provide the support they need to thrive socially.
What Are Social Skills?
Social skills include abilities like:
- Making eye contact
- Taking turns in conversation
- Understanding others’ feelings
- Sharing and cooperating
- Handling conflicts calmly
- Making and keeping friends
Why Some Kids Struggle
Challenges with social skills can come from:
- Shyness or social anxiety
- Learning differences or developmental delays
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- ADHD or impulse control issues
- Low self-esteem or past negative experiences
How Therapy Helps Build Social Skills
Therapists use various techniques to support social development:
- Social Skills Groups: Practice interaction with peers in a structured setting
- Role-Playing: Rehearse common social situations
- Modeling and Coaching: Therapists demonstrate and guide appropriate behaviors
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps kids understand social cues and manage anxiety
- Parent Involvement: Coaching parents on ways to encourage social growth at home
Tips for Parents to Support Social Skills
- Encourage playdates or group activities
- Praise efforts to share and cooperate
- Teach empathy by talking about feelings and perspectives
- Read stories or watch shows about friendship and kindness
- Model respectful communication and problem-solving
Final Thought
Strong social skills open doors to friendships, success at school, and emotional resilience. With therapy and support, children can develop the confidence and abilities to connect meaningfully with others.
