When the social world becomes a complex challenge, teenagers on the autism spectrum need a space where they can develop their social skills gradually, enjoyably, and in a personalized manner. This is exactly why the social groups for youth in Or Akiva and the surrounding area were established - a safe, empowering, and professional place where friendships are built gradually, personal connections are strengthened, and self-confidence develops.
What are the social groups for youth with autism?
The groups are designed for teenagers on the autism spectrum and are tailored to the individual needs of each participant. The main goal is to provide each individual with essential social tools and skills in a controlled and supportive social environment.The activities in the groups are diverse and vary according to the participants' level of functioning. They are intended to help them integrate into social situations, build relationships, and improve communication skills and social understanding.
The importance for youth - Moving from the circle of loneliness to the circle of friendships.
One of the most significant benefits for teenagers participating in social groups is breaking out of the feeling of loneliness. Many teenagers on the autism spectrum experience difficulty in building social connections and often have to deal with persistent feelings of loneliness.
In our groups, they learn how to create social connections naturally, where meeting with their peers allows them to share experiences that promote positive interaction.
In the group, they get the opportunity to be themselves without fear of judgment. This is a space where everyone is accepted as they are, with emphasis on developing personal strengths and progressing at an individual pace. Additionally, the groups help in strengthening self-confidence, as teenagers discover they are capable of handling social situations and creating genuine connections.
What do the group participants receive?
During the meetings, the teenagers enjoy a wide variety of activities designed to encourage social interactions and strengthen communication skills. Among other things, they learn:
How to understand the social situation they are in and respond appropriately.
Methods for verbal and non-verbal communication with group members.
Ways to deal with conflicts and solve social problems.
Improving social skills through games and joint activities.
Tools for dealing with social networks.
All of these are done with close professional guidance from therapists and group facilitators, who ensure that each child progresses according to their needs and abilities.
Emotional and Social Development in a Group
The groups allow teenagers to experience a sense of belonging and discover that friendships are not only possible but also enjoyable and rewarding. When they are in the company of peers who face similar challenges, an environment is created where everyone feels comfortable, leading to positive emotional development.The teenagers develop abilities to express their feelings more clearly, learn about empathy and acceptance of others, and create social connections that continue beyond the boundaries of the group.
A professional framework that supports personal growth
The social groups for teenagers on the autism spectrum are guided by a professional and experienced team that understands the special needs of each child and is deeply familiar with the processes that teenagers in general, and autistic teenagers in particular, go through. The groups are managed in a format of group activities, shared games, discussions, and participation in experiential activities aimed at strengthening the ability of teenagers to communicate and integrate into a social environment.
The content taught is science-based and founded on approaches that have been tested and shown to be effective in advancing children on the autism spectrum, such as the "I in the Group" model by Prof. Nirit Bauminger-Zviely from Bar-Ilan University and the PRT model from the Koegel Autism Center at Stanford University in the USA.
Summary
If you're looking for a way to promote your child's social and emotional development, the social groups for teenagers on the autism spectrum in Or Akiva are exactly the solution.There are no magic solutions and a lot of work is required. However, with an emphasis on inclusion, professional support, and a safe environment, your teenagers will be able to break free from feelings of loneliness, develop meaningful relationships, and experience emotional and social growth.
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