Summer is in full swing, and this month our Social Skills program is celebrating one of the most important parts of childhood: friendship. Throughout July, our activities will focus on helping children build meaningful connections through key social skills such as initiating interactions, taking turns, keeping conversations going, and understanding another person’s perspective.
Sample Activities
The Compliment Game
In this activity, children sit in a circle and pass or gently toss a bean bag to one another. Each child can give a compliment to someone else in the group. The activity helps children practice kindness, learn how to express positive thoughts about others, and experience how good it feels to both give and receive compliments. It also gives clients a chance to learn more about one another in a supportive group setting.
Good Friend List
This simple activity invites clients to brainstorm the qualities that make someone a good friend. Examples may include sharing, listening, using kind words, taking turns, and respecting personal space. Creating the list helps children think more clearly about positive friendship behaviors and how they can practice those skills with others.
We are also kicking off our month-long Spirit initiative for both SSTP and Floortime. Each week, staff and clients are invited to wear something that reflects the weekly theme. It is a fun way for everyone to show their spirit, creativity, and connection while celebrating the friendships we are building all month long.
July 6 – 11 is crazy socks
July 13-18 is PJs
July 20 – 24 is crazy hair
July 27 – August 1 is favorite book or movie character
