While we are out in the "real world" we practice hanging out and fitting in. We order food, buy tickets, and try new things our peers suggest. We find fun, age appropriate places and spaces to practice what is learned in the structured group setting. Occasionally, intentional sabotage is planned where a location is closed, not a good fit, etc... to practice identifying problems, finding solutions, dealing with the unexpected, and "going with the flow".
Why is Social Skills Therapy important?
The best way to "set" a skill, is to practice such skill. And the best way to practice such skill is to do so in as natural a setting as possible. Development of social skills does not happen naturally while sitting at a table with a teacher. Practicing and observing skills used in more typical social settings allows kids to know if they have it mastered, as well as allowing the therapists to observe where a breakdown may occur.
SPARC begins by practicing with a group of peers, using role play, video strips, and/or tailored lessons in a structured group and contained setting.
Later, SPARC takes the lessons "on the road" to utilize what we know, in the moment. The talent of each individual determines the focus for the outing. We discuss subjects such as body language, thinking vs. saying, appropriate conversation, terminology, monitoring the situation, what others think of us, and what we think of others.
While we are out in the "real world" we practice hanging out and fitting in. We order food, buy tickets, and try new things our peers suggest. We find fun, age appropriate places and spaces to practice what is learned in the structured group setting. Occasionally, intentional sabotage is planned where a location is closed, not a good fit, etc... to practice identifying problems, finding solutions, dealing with the unexpected, and "going with the flow".