Children with autism often face challenges when it comes to connecting with others socially. Whether it’s starting a conversation, making eye contact, sharing toys, or reading body language, these interactions don’t always come naturally. That’s where social skills therapy comes in—a targeted approach that teaches children with autism how to build and maintain meaningful relationships.
At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, we specialize in evidence-based services like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and Social Skills Group Therapy for children with autism throughout New Haven County, CT and nearby areas. Our programs help children practice real-world social interaction in a structured, supportive setting. From Milford to Shelton, Trumbull to Stratford, and beyond, Solstice serves families in Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton.
This blog will explore what social skills therapy involves, why it’s critical for children with autism, and how Solstice’s services support social growth throughout the communities we serve.
What Is Social Skills Therapy?
Social skills therapy is a structured intervention that helps children with autism develop age-appropriate social communication. Therapy typically takes place in small group settings and is led by professionals trained in ABA therapy and social-emotional learning.
In these groups, children learn and practice skills such as:
- Greeting others and making eye contact
- Initiating and maintaining conversations
- Recognizing emotions and body language
- Sharing, turn-taking, and cooperative play
- Problem-solving in social scenarios
- Understanding social rules and expectations
At Solstice, our social skills therapy is designed with each child’s developmental level and unique needs in mind. Whether your child lives in Seymour, Trumbull, or Milford, we offer individualized care rooted in proven techniques.
Why Social Skills Development Is Important
Social skills are vital for everyday functioning and emotional well-being. Without support, children with autism may experience social isolation, anxiety, or frustration. They may also struggle in classroom settings or during group activities in the community.
With consistent social skills training, children can:
- Build self-confidence
- Navigate social situations more comfortably
- Form friendships and peer relationships
- Improve classroom participation
- Enhance communication at home and school
When these skills are learned early and practiced regularly, the benefits carry over into adolescence and adulthood.
ABA Therapy’s Role in Social Skills Development
At Solstice, our social skills programs are based in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a gold-standard therapy approach for children with autism. ABA techniques help break down complex behaviors into manageable steps and reinforce progress through positive reinforcement.
Key ABA strategies we use include:
- Modeling and role-playing: Therapists model behaviors such as greetings or requesting help, then support the child in practicing these behaviors.
- Video modeling: Children watch examples of appropriate interactions and imitate what they see.
- Visual supports: Cue cards, picture schedules, and charts help children anticipate and understand social situations.
- Peer pairing: Children are grouped with peers of similar developmental stages to practice interacting in a structured environment.
These tools ensure that what a child learns in therapy can be generalized across settings—whether at home in Monroe, at school in Stratford, or on the playground in Westport.
What Happens in a Social Skills Group?
A typical session includes:
1. Greetings and check-ins: Children practice saying hello and sharing how they feel.
2. Skill of the day: The group focuses on a specific target skill, such as “asking to join a game” or “handling disappointment.”
3. Interactive activities: Role-play, games, or group challenges help children apply the skill in real time.
4. Group discussion: The group reflects on what they learned and how they can use the skill outside of the session.
5. Parent support: Caregivers receive updates and strategies to reinforce progress at home.
Our clinicians also work closely with families in Wilton, Easton, and Derby to ensure consistency and ongoing skill development between sessions.
Supporting Social Skills at Home and School
Solstice extends social skills training beyond the therapy room by providing:
- Parent training sessions to help reinforce skills at home
- School consultations to align social learning with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Community-based programs that help children practice social behaviors in real-world settings
- Telehealth options for families who prefer flexible, remote access to services
Families across Ansonia, Weston, and Fairfield benefit from this well-rounded, collaborative approach. We partner with caregivers, educators, and clinicians to help each child thrive in multiple environments.
Who Can Benefit from Social Skills Therapy?
Social skills therapy is beneficial for:
- Children with autism who experience challenges in peer interaction
- Children with communication delays
- Children who are shy, anxious, or socially withdrawn
- Children transitioning to a new school or social environment
Before enrolling, each child receives an assessment to determine group placement or identify if a one-on-one approach is more appropriate.
Conclusion
Social interaction is a fundamental part of a child’s development. For children with autism, learning how to navigate social situations doesn’t always happen naturally—but with the right support, it can. Social skills therapy teaches children how to form connections, express themselves, and build friendships that last.
At Solstice Behavioral Health & Consulting, we proudly serve families throughout New Haven County and nearby communities including Milford, Shelton, Stratford, Fairfield, Easton, Monroe, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Our team of expert clinicians is here to support your child’s social-emotional growth with compassionate, evidence-based care.
To learn more about our Social Skills Group Therapy and other autism services, call (203) 900-4720 today. Let Solstice help your child take the next step toward social confidence and meaningful connection.
