Developing social skills
Some kids with learning disabilities need specific instruction in socially acceptable behaviour. The adults in their lives can help by describing social behaviours, modelling those behaviours, and role-playing with them to provide practice. Some schools may offer classes, or the guidance counsellors may have information about such classes in the community. There are summer day-camp programs that are designed for kids with learning disabilities and that teach social skills in an engaging setting. Your local Y or Boys and Girls Club of Canada is likely to offer something similar.
Kids who fear failure are reluctant to join group activities. Parents can help by asking the coach or instructor if their teen can attend a couple of sessions or practices as an observer or helper to give him a chance to overcome his reluctance. Encouraging your teen to sign up for a sports team or another group activity gives him the chance to interact casually with peers. Alternatively, your teen might offer her own skills to coach or tutor a younger child.
Excerpted from Understanding Your Teen: Ages 13 to 19 by Christine Langlois. Copyright 1999 by Telemedia Communications Inc. Excerpted, with permission by Ballantine Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
