Peer to Peer is a social skills
program that was started for students who would benefit from Social Skills
instruction in our school district. The population that we currently serve
ranges in age from 5-10 years old (grades K-5). As the program continues, some
of the students are diagnosed with Autism disorders, however there are many
students without, who benefit from receiving social skills presented to them
by peers. The program is directed by two regular education teachers, one
special education teacher, and one speech and language pathologist. Students
are pre-set with the schedule for the group, at the beginning of each session.
Next, we pair the model students with the students needing social skills. We
begin with a targeted social skill for the day. These skills are practiced
throughout the session and then reviewed in the following sessions. In
addition, each skill is presented with a visual aide. The second part consists
of games or sensory activities. Games are chosen that encourage active
participation and the usage of social skills amongst the group. We started
this group within the school district, because currently some students travel
up to 30 minutes away from home to attend Social Skills groups and, while
others don't have the opportunity to attend any at all. A program within our
school district allows for the carry-over of skills and friendships on a
day-to-day basis. Students enjoy coming to Peer to Peer and teachers and
parents both are seeing great results with the start-up of the this program!
We hope to continue to receive your support!