Social Learning / Social Thinking®/Pragmatic Language
Children with social pragmatic deficits may say hurtful words because they don't understand how it makes their friends feel. They may complain loudly if they don't want to do something, or disagree with friends during a group project in class. Individuals with social learning issues don't understand how their actions make others feel, and also don't realize that their friends may respond with unkind words because of their actions.
Social pragmatic language deficits are often associated with other diagnoses, such as Autism Spectrum, ADHD, non-verbal learning disability, anxiety, or a pragmatic language disorder. Some individuals do not learn social skills intuitively, the way that their peers do. They struggle to understand the perspective of others, and benefit from instruction that will teach them to think more deeply about their own and others' thoughts/emotions in context. They often don't understand the complexity of social language, and again benefit from instruction that breaks down concepts into pieces they can understand and practice.
Instruction for social learning at Lighthouse Speech & Language is generally provided in a small group setting. Social concepts are taught in a lesson, and then practiced in a fun group activity that may include Legos®, books, blocks, games, videos, building a child- sized pirate ship, iPad learning apps, and more. Lessons also build executive functioning skills with regard to improving organization and planning, self-monitoring, and emotional regulation. Children may be seen for individual sessions, if there is a need for more structured teaching.
Lessons are based on the work of world-renowned expert, Michelle Garcia Winner. More information about her Social Thinking® methodology can be found at www.socialthinking.com.
What is the difference between social thinking/learning therapy and traditional
social skills groups?
Social thinking groups (also known as social learning groups) begin with learning the relevant core Social Thinking® concepts, and then practice the use of those concepts in the individual's natural environment. Traditional social skills programs target behavior change as the primary focus, without addressing the reasons "why" or "how". Children with social difficulties do not understand "how" to change their behavior, and they don't understand "why" they have to change their behavior because they have difficulty understanding the perspectives of others. Social Thinking® concepts and methodology help children (and adults) to better understand social relationships, and to build social connections with others. For more information, click here: Parents: Is Your Treatment Team Teaching Social Thinking Well? 15 Questions to Ask Professionals in Private Practice.