What are social skills and why are they important?

Social skills allow us to make and sustain friendships and to respond appropriately to others in a variety of settings such as school, at home, and in our community. Those with strong social skills have a greater ability to understand body language and facial expressions so that they receive feedback about how others are feeling and responding to us.

When children experience difficulty interacting with their peers, their feelings of self-worth often deteriorate. Worry and anxiety about friendships may interfere with his/her ability to concentrate on schoolwork. For these children, social skills groups are an excellent way for them to learn constructive interaction patterns that lead to improved relationships. Children with well- developed social skills tend to be better liked by peers, have more positive interactions with teachers and others with whom they interact, and tend to be more content than those children who struggle with social skills.

By Megan Baker, MA, Marriage and Family Therapist Intern. If you would like to enroll your child or have any questions, please contact our office at 323.655.5580