The Why Behind Creating Connections Social Skills Groups
Carolina Therapy Connection is so excited to announce our newest program – Creating Connections Social Skills Groups! During a child’s early development, they cultivate an understanding of communication and social skills, learn the foundations of building relationships and establish neurological pathways that promote the growth of emotional intelligence, confidence and resilience later in life. Research shows that positive social experiences during early childhood promote team work, problem solving, learning how to collaborate on a task with peers, flexible thinking, patience and emotional regulation!
It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has left many parents and researchers wondering what the true impact will be on our children’s future social skills. The shift to virtual interactions, time out of school or daycare, and fewer experiences outside of the home has affected us all in some way. We know that parents are working hard to ensure that their little ones are learning, exploring and growing to their fullest potential! Our goal for these social skills groups are to create a FUN environment that fosters positive relationships, develops meaningful peer connections, and builds a variety of robust soft skills used throughout life.
What activities can I expect my child to participate in during these groups?
Each group session will be collaboratively organized and led by a licensed Occupational Therapist and a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist at Carolina Therapy Connection. They will work together to engage your child in a variety of therapeutic activities with a small group of peers their age such as:
- Fun games that promote problem solving, active listening, following directions, turn-taking & team work
- Sensory-rich activities for regulation
- Circle time
- Outdoor & indoor play in our courtyard, sensory gym and playground areas
- Singing songs and learning through music
- Fine motor and visual motor activities
- Using sign-language and/or verbal language
- Weekly themed activities that promote fun & excitement!
Everything YOU need to know to get started with Creating Connections Social Skills Groups
Who are our social skills groups designed for?
Creating Connections Social Skills Groups at Carolina Therapy Connection is an all-inclusive 8 week-program designed for children ages 2-5 years old, regardless of where they are on their developmental journey. Children will be divided into two separate groups (6-8 kiddos per group): ages 2-3 years old and ages 2.5-5 years old.
How long does the program last and when will the group sessions be held?
Group sessions will be held once a week for 8 consecutive weeks starting in February of 2023!
- Children ages 2-3 years old will begin on Monday, February 13th from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.
- Children ages 3.5-5 years old will begin on Friday, February 10th from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.
Where will the program be held?
We are currently offering our social skills groups at our Greenville clinic location: 1925 Turnbury Drive, Greenville, NC 27858.
How do I sign my child up? Begin the process to sign-up by filling out our interest from HERE!
Once you fill out the interest form, one of our staff members will give you a call to discuss specific needs of your child, collect onboarding information and start the enrollment process! If you have any questions regarding our social skills groups, give us a call at (252) 341-9944 or email us at info@carolinatherapyconnection.com.
References
, et al. Social communication skill attainment in babies born during the COVID-19 pandemic: a birth cohort study