Our Saturday social groups focus on building social, communication, and friendship skills in order to promote self-advocacy and increase confidence!
Location
Our Saturday groups are held at 210 East Broad Street in Falls Church (map link).
*Please note that the ages/grades listed below are approximations. Group placement will always be determined by age appropriateness as well as ability.
PreK – Kindergarten: Little ones will improve social interaction and
communication as they engage in sensory exploration, arts and crafts, fine and gross motor play, simple games, pretend play, and more! Our focus includes turn-taking, reciprocal conversation, and imaginary play!
1st – 3rd Grade: Early elementary kids will continue to expand social interaction and appropriate communication as they work on reciprocal conversation, staying on-topic, perspective taking, and the concept of being a good friend!
3rd – 5th Grade: In the elementary grades, kids need to know how to play and talk with other children in many different contexts, including on the playground, in the lunchroom, on a play-date, and at home. Facilitated play is one of the best ways to help them learn to do this! Groups may go on some outings, such as to a local restaurant, festival, etc., as well as engage in collaborative team projects to help promote the importance of team work, flexibility and effective communication!
Middle School/Early Teens: In the upper elementary grades and middle school, play becomes more sophisticated and centers around favorite interests. Though one of the goals of this group will be expanding interests, favorite interests will be used for motivation during various activities, including active games, board games, and sports. Group members will engage in activities within the community as well such as bowling, a trip to Dunkin Donuts, or participation in a local event such as a seasonal festival. Additionally, group members will begin to engage in life skills focused projects and activities.
We also offer an internship program for teens and young adults which focuses on independent life skills (budgeting, cooking, navigating your community independently), job skills, and how to interview.
If you are interested in applying for any of our Saturday Social Skills Groups mentioned above, please fill out our application.
If you would like to schedule a phone consultation with our Program Director prior to completing the application to determine if our groups would be a good fit for your child/young adult, please send an email or call 571-295-5116.