Some kids learn to say “please” and “thank you” and to wait their turn by watching others. But kids with learning and attention issues might not pick up on common social interactions simply through observation. If your child struggles with social skills, a social skills group could help. Social skills include far more than the ability to communicate with other people. They’re crucial to making friends, succeeding in school and, later in life, getting and keeping a job. Social skills groups are small groups led by an adult who teaches the kids how to interact appropriately with others their age. They can help kids learn conversational, friendship and problem-solving skills. They can also be useful in teaching kids to control their emotions and understand other people’s perspectives. Kids can learn important skills that they’ll use the rest of their lives. This includes learning how to greet others, start a conversation, respond to others, maintain a conversation, share and take turns, and ask for help. Social skills groups are best for kids who aren’t developing social skills as quickly as their peers. This may include kids with ADHD, who can be too active and physical in their play. It may include kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, who may have trouble picking up on social cues, like body language, tone of voice and facial expressions. It may also include kids with social communication challenges and other types of learning or behavior issues. Turtle Wing Foundation groups for children in two-age ranges – Turtle Tweens for children 8-13 years old and Turtle Teens for children 14+ years old. On Saturday, November 10 the younger Turtle Tween group will have their next outing which is a a tasty opportunity to decorate cookies guided by Keri Michael of Keri’s Kookies. The 3rd-5thgraders are scheduled 1-3 PM and the 6th-8th graders are from 3-5 PM. The high school participants are encouraged to attend as volunteer helpers. This will be held at First Baptist Church hall in Schulenburg (110 N Upton Ave.). New participants need to contact Dawn McMillan to see if this group is appropriate for their child. Dawn may be reached at 512-718-1617 or fcwchild@gmail.com. This program is being underwritten by a grant from Second Chance Emporium so there is no fee to participate. Turtle Wing’s mission is to “help children with learning challenges in rural areas with learning challenges achieve their full potential”. The foundation serves youth in Fayette, Lavaca, Colorado and surrounding counties. For more information on the foundation contact Turtle Wing managing director, Susie Shank at 979-505-5090 or Susie@turtlewingfoundation.org.
