Building Essential Social Skills for School Success
Navigating the social landscape of school can be challenging for children. Developing strong social skills is crucial for their success and well-being. The Boys Town School Social Skills Tool offers a structured approach to help children learn and practice essential behaviors that foster positive interactions with peers and adults.
Why Social Skills Matter
Children who master social skills are better equipped to:
- Build and maintain friendships
- Follow instructions effectively
- Handle criticism gracefully
- Ask for permission appropriately
- Show respect to others
These skills not only enhance their school experience but also lay the foundation for future success in various aspects of life.
How the Tool Works
The School Social Skills Tool provides clear, step-by-step guidelines for each key social skill. These guidelines are designed to be easy to understand and implement, making them ideal for parents and educators to use in teaching children.
Each skill is broken down into actionable steps, accompanied by visual aids to reinforce learning. By consistently practicing these steps, children can internalize positive behaviors and apply them in real-life situations.
Getting Started
To begin, review the printable versions of each skill available on the website. Discuss the steps with your child, model the behaviors, and encourage them to practice regularly. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to helping your child develop these essential social skills.
Remember, teaching social skills is an ongoing process. With patience and practice, your child will gain the confidence and competence needed to navigate social interactions successfully.
Getting Along with Others
- Listen
- Say something positive
- Show interest
Following Instructions
- Look at the person.
- Say, “Okay”.
- Do what you’ve been asked right away.
- Check back.
Accepting Criticism
- Look at the person.
- Stay calm and quiet.
- Say, “Okay”.
- Try to correct the problem. If you are asked to do something differently, do it. If you are asked to stop doing something, stop it.
Asking Permission
- Look at the other person.
- Be specific when you ask permission.
- Be sure to ask rather than demand.
- Give reasons if necessary.
- Accept the decision.
Showing Respect
- Obey a request to stop negative behavior.
- Refrain from teasing, threatening or making fun of others.
- Allow others to have their privacy.
- Obtain permission before using another person’s property.
- Do not damage or vandalize public property.
- Refrain from conning or persuading others into breaking rules.
- Avoid acting obnoxiously in public.
- Dress appropriately when in public.