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Learning how to form positive peer relationships is a critical skill that a child continues to develop throughout their life. However, social skills don’t come naturally to all children. Some kids struggle with taking turns or handling their anger when things don’t go their way. As we head into summer, I wanted to share some tips that you can use if you notice that your child is having trouble making friends.

For children who need more structured support, we provide a range of programs to help children who struggle with anxiety and big emotions. This month’s newsletter will take an in-depth look at programs to support parents of kids with communication difficulties.

If you are concerned about your child and looking for help, please reach out to us today.

Matthew Cruger, PhD
Matthew Cruger, PhD
Associate Clinical Director; Clinical Neuropsychologist
Developing Social Communication Skills in Children

FOR CAREGIVERS

Developing Social Communication Skills in Children

Early language acquisition tends to happen quite naturally for most children. The kids who struggle with these skills may not have an effective way to convey their wants and needs, for various reasons. How we as adults respond to their attempts to communicate can have a direct impact on their language development — accelerating or decelerating the process. For children with social communication delays and autism, we provide a range of programs to support families.
  • Project ImPACT | Ages 1-8
    Evidence-based program to provide parent coaching and child engagement strategies for children with social communication delays.
  • Social Adventures Ages 3-6
    Weekly social learning program to teach young children how to use language effectively in social situations with peers of the same age.
  • LEGO® Therapy Social Skills Group | Ages 7-12
    A 6-week evidence-based group therapy program designed to help elementary school-aged children who have difficulties with social communication and social skills.
  • Children’s Friendship Training | Grades 2-5
    A 12-week evidence-based social skills program for elementary school-aged children who experience difficulties making or keeping friends.
Supporting Neurodiverse Students

FOR EDUCATORS

Supporting Neurodiverse Students

Neurodiversity refers to kids whose brains function differently from those of neurotypical children. And it can come in many forms, such as learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or sensory processing issues. While neurodivergent students may possess unique strengths — such as exceptional memorization skills or hyper-focus abilities — they often require additional support from teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff in the school to excel academically and socially.

Three fundamental areas where neurodivergent students tend to need help are behavioral issues, social challenges, and executive functioning.

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Speech and Language Service

FOR CLINICIANS

Speech and Language Service

At all ages and developmental stages, a speech and language disorder can severely undermine a child’s ability to communicate wants and needs effectively, succeed in social and academic settings and develop relationships. A child’s ability to communicate effectively contributes in no small part to overall mental health. Our Speech and Language Service offers evaluation and treatment for children with a range of communication disorders.

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CLINICIAN SPOTLIGHT

CLINICIAN SPOTLIGHT

Margaret Dyson, PhD, is the Director of the Social Group Therapy Program, training coordinator, and a psychologist in the Autism Center at the Child Mind Institute.

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Clinical Programs

The Child Mind Institute’s clinical programs provide evidence-based services targeting specific skills in a tailored environment.

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