Helping Your Child Refresh Their Social Skills For A Great School Year

After a long summer, many children feel nervous about returning to classmates and teachers. Social skills, like academic skills, need refreshing. As a school therapist, I encourage parents to intentionally practice these skills to set their kids up for success.

Common Social Challenges

Joining group activities

Sharing and taking turns

Expressing feelings appropriately

Handling disagreements or teasing

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5 Social Skills to Practice at Home

✅ 1. Greeting Others Confidently

Practice saying “Hi” with eye contact and a smile.

✅ 2. Asking to Join Play

Teach phrases like “Can I play with you?” or “What are you playing?”

✅ 3. Sharing and Taking Turns

Use board games or pretend play to model patience.

✅ 4. Expressing Feelings with Words

Encourage statements like “I feel sad when…” instead of physical reactions.

✅ 5. Problem-Solving Small Disagreements

Role-play conflict scenarios and brainstorm solutions together.

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Try This: Role Play Daily

Spend five minutes each evening practicing a school-based social situation. It builds confidence and reduces anxiety about peer interactions.

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Closing

Social confidence doesn’t appear overnight. Repeated practice and gentle encouragement will equip your child to navigate friendships and group settings with ease this school year.