1. Arrange for Successful Play Dates

Choose a child with whom your child has previously had positive social encounters. Try to select a neutral location to conduct the play date. This will help to avoid either child from feeling like he/she has to protect his/her “turf.” The play date should be time limited. The first couple of play dates should be limited to 60 to 90 minutes maximum, even if things are going well. The goal for these initial encounters is to have both children go away feeling happy and positive about their time together. After the play dates are over, and the other child is no longer present, you can review with your child what went well and what things need more improvement. This process should occur after every play date. Additional play dates could involve structured activities at home. As theses encounters progress, supervision may be gradually reduced.

2. Setup Successful Experiences with a Parent

Select an activity that both the parent and child enjoy doing. While engaging in the activity, the parent should provide the child with generous praise when witnessing the child engaging in socially appropriate behavior. Remember to be specific when providing praise (i.e., “I really liked it when you said ‘nice job’ at the end of the game”).

3. Model Positive Self Talk

Children with social skills deficits often experience difficulty recognizing their own internal dialogue. Parents can help with this by modeling positive self talk for their child. This activity requires the parent to think out loud, for example, “Right now it is really frustrating and hard for me to be patient and wait my turn in line, but if I do, no one will become upset with me and everyone will get what they want.”

Conclusion

Helping your child develop stronger social skills takes patience, consistency, and thoughtful planning. Structured play dates, shared parent-child activities, and modeling positive self-talk can all play important roles in building your child’s social confidence. These approaches help create enjoyable, low-pressure opportunities to practice appropriate behaviors while reinforcing positive interactions.

For additional support, professional resources such as Counseling Services can guide families through social-emotional development strategies. Occupational Therapy Services—including both pediatric occupational therapy and occupational therapy for adults—can further support children in developing skills like self-regulation, attention, and emotional control, which are essential for successful peer interactions. Participating in a Social Skills Group also offers a structured and supportive environment where your child can practice these skills with peers under professional guidance.

With a combination of at-home strategies and supportive services, your child can build meaningful connections and feel more confident in social situations. Contact us now!

Yours in Health,

New Horizons Wellness Services
13333 SW 68th Pkwy,
Tigard, OR 97223
- https://g.page/newhws

New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.

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