Wednesday, May 16, 2018

How to Help Young Children Fit In and Make Friends

This is the time of year counselors are looking for summer reading and resources to buy for next year. My next several posts will be devoted to some materials I have discovered and used that other elementary counselors may find useful. Getting from Me to We by Shonna Tuck a speech language therapist is very useful in working with young children through age 7 with social skill deficits with or without diagnoses of autism, anxiety, or ADHD. Approximately 3 children in every class need extra support to relate to peers (tier two). She has created a simple social skills development ladder that is very practical and useful in identifying gaps and goals around friendships.  As a counselor it has helped me consult with teachers about recess and free time that are the most challenging times of the school day for these kids. I recommend this book to all parents whose children are struggling making and keeping friends.  It has a great chapter on how to manage effective playdates. Since social skills issues are one of our primary reasons for referrals, check out this book.

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