Social skills are the skills we use everyday to interact and communicate with others. They include verbal and non-verbal communication, such as speech, gesture, facial expression and body language. A person has strong social skills if they have the knowledge of how to behave in social situations and understand both written and implied rules when communicating with others. Children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Asperger’s often have difficulties with social skills.

Social skills are vital in helping children to have and maintain positive relationships with others. Many of these skills are crucial in making and sustaining friendships. It is also important for children to develop ’empathy’ (i.e. being able to put yourself into someone else’s shoes and recognise their feelings) as it allows them to respond in an understanding and caring way to how others are feeling and thinking.

Here you will find activities to improve children's social skills.