Social Groups

At Balance Autism, we believe that every child holds incredible potential, and developing strong social skills is a vital step in helping them connect with the world around them. Social skills are more than just learning to say "hello" or take turns—they are the foundation for building meaningful relationships, expressing emotions, and navigating everyday life with confidence. For families, the journey may sometimes feel uncertain, but there is hope. With compassionate support and individualized strategies, children can make remarkable strides in communication, empathy, and friendship. We’re here to walk alongside you, celebrating each milestone and nurturing your child’s ability to shine in their own unique way.

Communicating Listening Understanding Empathy

Club CLUE (Communicating Listening Understanding Empathy) is a social communication/problem-solving group that helps students decode the often-confusing world of verbal and nonverbal signals. Small group sessions, led by trained staff on autism will address:

  • Using appropriate strategies for making and keeping friends
  • Interpreting and using body language cues for social interaction
  • Initiating and participating in conversations appropriately
  • Identifying and expressing emotions appropriately
  • Matching communication and behavior to various group situations
  • Applying social communication and problem-solving skills in interactive role-playing situations
  • Managing meltdowns
  • Expected/unexpected behaviors in various settings

Teen Talk

Teen TALK (Talent Advocacy Learning Knowledge) offers lessons in skill development for middle and high school students, focusing on group participation and navigating dating. Parents are encouraged to share topics they feel would benefit their child or specific challenges they face. We welcome parent-submitted topics for future lessons. Additionally, Teen TALK provides social opportunities outside the clinic.

 

Some of the topics addressed during Teen TALK groups are:

  • Problem solving/negotiating
  • Perspective taking
  • Navigating the boring moments
  • Using body language/facial expression to understand communication
  • Self-monitoring
  • Expected/unexpected behavior in various settings
  • Making an impression
  • Manners at home and away from home
  • Managing milestones and celebrations: Funerals, weddings, graduation, holidays
  • Navigating the internet
  • Clothes: Casual, semi-formal, formal
  • Hygiene
  • Independence and taking care of yourself

Young Adults (Ages 18-25)

A social group for those who struggle with interpersonal relationships due to autism spectrum disorders, behaviors, impulsivity, or shyness.

 

Some of the topics addressed during the Young Adult groups are:

  • Problem solving/negotiating
  • Perspective taking
  • Using body language/facial expression to understand communication
  • Self-monitoring
  • Expected/unexpected behavior in various settings
  • Making an impression
  • Managing emotions
  • Manners at home and away from home
  • Navigating the internet
  • Clothes: Casual, semi-formal, formal
  • Hygiene
  • Independence and taking care of yourself
  • Job interviews and job expectations
  • Building independence and life skills