Children and teens with Autism often experience differences in social communication and interaction. This may include difficulty developing peer relationships, initiating or responding to social cues, understanding nonverbal communication (like gestures or eye contact), or navigating group activities. It’s important to remember: many children with Autism want to connect with others, they may simply need structured support and practice to build the skills that make social interaction feel more natural and successful.
What Are Social Skills?
Social skills are the abilities we use to communicate and interact appropriately in different social situations. These skills allow individuals to:
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Start and maintain conversations
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Understand body language and tone
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Take turns and share
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Problem-solve with peers
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Build and maintain friendships
Through ABA therapy, social skills are broken down into teachable steps and practiced in supportive environments, helping children and teens apply what they learn in real-life situations.
How to Teach Social Skills in Children with Autism
Building social skills in children with autism takes structure, consistency, and practice. ABA therapy and home support can work together to strengthen communication and peer interaction skills.
Role Play & Practice
Practice introductions, joining games, and asking for help. Structured play, board games, and cooperative activities reinforce turn-taking, conversation skills, and social confidence.
Social Stories
Social stories break down social situations like sharing, handling frustration, and understanding emotions. These tools make social expectations clearer and more predictable.
Positive Reinforcement
Praise and encouragement increase motivation and help children continue practicing new social skills.
Build on Strengths
Special interests, humor, creativity, or strong memory skills can be powerful tools for building friendships and social connection.
With individualized support and consistent reinforcement, children and teens with autism can make meaningful progress in social development.
Summer Teen Social Skills Group (Ages 13–17)
Our Teen Social Skills Group helps adolescents with autism strengthen conversation skills, peer relationships, and confidence in group settings.
Ages: 13–17
Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays | 3:30–5:30 PM
Group Size: Limited to 8 teens
Cost: $480 total ($60 per session)
Spots are limited to ensure individualized support.
This group focuses on:
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Starting and maintaining conversations
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Making and keeping friends
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Joining group activities
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Managing social anxiety
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Understanding social cues
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Handling changes in routine
Registration is now open, sign-up now because spots are limited!
Little Spurs Autism Centers provides collaborative ABA therapy for children and teens ages 0–21 through center-based and home-based services. To learn more or get started, contact us today! Have questions about social skills? Please email autism@littlespurs.com.
