Social Skills Group at MCPS elem

[Anonymous]

My son in K was just "invited" by the school counselor to participate in a social skills group at school.
The group will meet for 30 min. each week during class time over the next 6 weeks.

Has anyone's child participated in this type of group at school? Was it helpful?
I am worried that my son will come home more anxious than usual.
He has ADHD, is on medication, and is currently seeing a private counselor for play therapy after school once a week. We've found this to be helpful and he enjoys the sessions.

He is somewhat shy and socially awkward, so I do see the potential benefit...I just don't want to make thing worse for him (meaning have this make him feel badly about himself).

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you.

[Anonymous]

I am a teacher in an MCPS school. Generally the social skills groups are based around teacher recommendation and are fun. My counselor does things like plays board games, play dough, coloring, etc. with the kids. While they are doing these things, she is able to interject with sharing, being a good friend, etc. I think it is a fine idea. If you are feeling uncomfortable with it, or just want to check it out, contact the counselor. She/he should be happy to keep you updated as far as how your son is doing. I teach 3rd grade and find that my students really love the time that they spend with the counselor. It is definitely perceived as a fun time to "play" with classmates. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Thank you. DS has begun the sessions and seems to like them so far. I did speak with the counselor before giving our consent.

[Anonymous]

Both of my school aged kids participate in these groups. They work on all kinds of social skills that are age appropriate. My kids love it. But, honestly, I'm not sure that it provides anything more than a fun time. Still, I would most definitely sign them up if invited again.