Setting Up A Social Skills Group? Try These Energizing Games & Activities

Promoting Connections and Kindness

Facilitating a social skills group focused on building healthy relationships can offer rewarding benefits. These groups aim to create an encouraging space for people to practice social interactions, communication skills, and emotional awareness.

Prioritize Understanding and Growth

When planning activities for a social skills group, emphasize personal growth over optimization or metrics. Consider leading energizing games and thoughtful discussions that promote connection and inclusion.

Sample Discussion Topics

Expressing feelings and identifying emotions in others
Active listening and asking thoughtful questions
Respecting diverse perspectives and experiences
Cooperation and teamwork
Kindness and compassion

Potential Group Games or Activities

Here are some ideas for activities that could encourage positive social interactions:

Two Truths and a Lie icebreaker
Blindfolded communication exercises
Feelings charades or pictionary
Cooperative obstacle courses
Teambuilding games like Human Knot

Measuring Success with Care

When evaluating social skills groups, focus on qualitative outcomes centered on understanding, empathy and emotional growth. Participant feedback can provide insights on what activities were most meaningful to them.

FAQ

What are some icebreaker ideas for a social skills group?

Great icebreakers allow participants to share something about themselves. Examples include Two Truths and a Lie, Desert Island (sharing a few important items to bring), or Unique Talents.

How can you make activities more inclusive?

Offer a variety of activities to appeal to different interests and comfort levels. Encourage participants to modify activities to meet their individual needs.

What if someone struggles to open up in the group?

Make participation optional, emphasize there is no pressure. Have 1-on-1 check-ins if they wish and remind them their comfort comes first.

How do you deal with conflicts in a social skills group?

Validate all perspectives non-judgmentally. Lead discussions exploring the root causes and feelings fueling tensions. Guide participants to find common ground.

Why are social skills groups important?

They allow supportive practice of interpersonal skills essential for life. The connections made can provide friendships, community and reduced isolation.