Learn how to:
Start, maintain, and end social play
May have to learn to say "Can I join in?" "What
would you like to do next?" "Can you help me?" or "I want to
play alone right now." Otherwise, the child may blatantly state the obvious not
being aware that these comments do not encourage friendships.
Be flexible, cooperative and share
Explain that the activity is not wrong if completed
differently and can be completed in less time with a better result when sharing equipment
and ideas.
Maintain solitude without offending others
Explain
what the child should have done
Errors in social behavior are due to
several factors: not understanding the consequences on the feelings of others, and
being unaware of what they are supposed to do or a more appropriate subtle alternative.
Rarely does the behavior have malicious intent.
Encourage
a friend to play with the child at home
Ensure the occasion is a success,
perhaps by arranging an outing and ensuring an adult does something with the kids to
minimize the influence of the child's limited social play skills. An enjoyable time
may ensure that an invitation to return is accepted.
Enroll
the child in clubs
School may provide the only occasions
for social play but joining clubs such as Scouts can extend social experiences.
Teach
the child to observe other children to indicate what to do
Encourage
cooperative and competitive games
Guidance may be needed on turn taking,
allowing others a fair opportunity and incorporating their suggestions. One problem
can arise in competitive games, always wanting to be first. This may not be due to a
desire to be superior but to have consistency in the order of participants, to know their
position, and personal satisfaction in success.
Model
how to relate to the child
It is essential that the teacher and
other adults working with the child model tolerance, tuition in social skills and
encouragement, as their approach will be amplified within the classroom. Recognize
occasions when classmates are particularly supportive.
Explain
alternative means of seeking assistance
Provide
enjoyment at break times
Use
social stories to understand the cues and actions for specific social situations
Run
social skills groups for adolescents to:
Rehearse more appropriate options
Use poetry and autobiographies to encourage self-disclosure and empathy
Provide guidance and practice in body language
Complete
projects and activities illustrating the qualities of a good friend
To
help understand emotions:
Explore one emotion at a time as a
project
Teach how to read and respond to the cures that indicate different levels of emotion
Learn safety phrases when confused
To
help express emotions:
Use a 'gauge' as a visual guide
Use video recording and role play to provide more subtle or precise expression
Use leading questions or a diary to encourage self-disclosure