Social Skills Groups

Helping Children Build Friendships, Confidence, and Connection

Small, engaging groups where children build friendships, practice communication, and grow in confidence.

Child and caregiver practicing communication together

Practice With Peers

Building Friendship Skills Through Guided Practice

At Gentle Roots, our small-group social skills programs provide children with opportunities to develop meaningful relationships while learning the skills they need to communicate, cooperate, and navigate everyday social situations with confidence.

Each group is led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and combines evidence-based teaching with engaging, play-based activities that make learning feel natural and fun.

With a maximum of six children per group, every child receives individualized support while having opportunities to practice new skills with peers.

How Groups Feel

Rather than simply talking about social skills, children practice them through games, movement, collaborative activities, and real-life interactions with peers.

Ask About Groups

What We Work On

Practical Skills for Everyday Social Situations

Every child has different strengths and goals, but groups may focus on skills such as:

Beginning and maintaining conversations
Making and keeping friends
Taking turns and sharing
Understanding perspectives
Emotional regulation
Problem solving
Flexible thinking
Teamwork and cooperation
Self-awareness and confidence
Navigating conflict appropriately

Age Groups

Support Matched to Each Developmental Stage

3-6

Ages 3-6

Our youngest groups focus on building the foundations of social interaction through play.

  • Playing with peers
  • Taking turns and waiting
  • Following group routines
  • Sharing
  • Identifying emotions
  • Early conversation skills
  • Cooperative play

Activities are movement-based, interactive, and designed to keep young learners engaged while naturally encouraging communication and connection.

7-10

Ages 7-10

As children enter elementary school, friendships become more complex. These groups build confidence and flexibility with peers.

  • Conversation skills
  • Joining group activities
  • Reading social cues
  • Managing frustration
  • Flexible thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Sportsmanship
  • Self-advocacy

Children practice through games, collaborative projects, outdoor activities, and structured social challenges.

11-13

Ages 11-13

Preteens are navigating increasingly complex social situations, growing independence, and changing peer relationships.

  • Building and maintaining friendships
  • Perspective taking
  • Managing disagreements respectfully
  • Understanding social expectations
  • Self-confidence
  • Emotional regulation
  • Communication in group settings
  • Problem solving

Activities encourage discussion, teamwork, and real-world practice while creating opportunities for genuine peer connections.

Gentle Roots Approach

What Makes Gentle Roots Different?

Small Groups

Small groups allow for individualized support and meaningful peer practice.

BCBA-Led

Instruction is led by a BCBA using evidence-based strategies.

Real Interaction

Children learn through real interactions, not worksheets.

Family Involvement

Parents receive practical strategies they can use at home.

Supportive Pace

Every child is encouraged to participate at their own pace.

Interested in Social Skills Groups?

Reach out to learn about current group options, age placement, and whether a social skills group may be a good fit for your child.