Social Skills and High School

Most high school students feel awkward and nervous at times. They fret about what to wear and who to sit with at lunch. They want a date for the Homecoming dance and a best friend to hang with after school. 

Most students with Asperger's want these same things;however, they have no idea on where to start to make these things happen. How do we know what clothes are cool or how to ask someone on a date? We learn for others- from observing how these social situations work. Asperger's syndrome lessens the ability to pick up on and understand these social skills. So, we must teach these to our kids.

How do we teach these? We teach social skills through modeling, role play, and with a great deal of patience. One cool way to do this is to video peers role playing certain situations and watch the video with your child and then talk about . Also use "teachable moments" that occur everyday to point out social skills- like how to make small talk, how to act in a restaurant, or how to ask a friend over to hang out.

Always be patient and encouraging. Remember that your child wants to be better at this, but that it is very difficult to understand. If you need ideas on a specific social skill, email me for tips.