Social Skills Training.
BLAST is a social skills experiential program in which participants gain experience in articulation and frustration tolerance. We notice that participants who attend BLAST are better able to articulate their feelings, handle frustration, deal with social anxiety and make and maintain friendships. We approach social learning through a neurodivergency-affirmative lens. Specific goals vary by participant and we work with each family to set appropriate and realistic goals that meet the desires of the participant in consultation with family. We believe that social development is a collaborative process that requires a very active effort on your part. It is important that each family works on social skills weekly.
The BLAST philosophy is based upon Socratic Questioning and in-vivo learning. The general skill areas that are focused upon include friendship/play skills, emotional regulation, communication, and self-regulation. The skill areas have been drawn from several different social skills models.
In addition, BLAST utilizes peer mediated social skills interventions. Program activities are designed to give participants a variety of social experiences in which they will have both successes and challenges.
Social skills programs have benefits, risks and consequences. Since it often requires working on difficult skill areas, participants may at times experience uncomfortable levels of feelings. By addressing these, social skills programs has been shown to be very beneficial in that it can lead to a significant increase in confidence in previously identified problem areas. It is important to remember, however, that progress can never be guaranteed and it is important for BLAST to maintain open communication with the family about current improvements and challenges.
K-1 Elementary Group This intro group is designed to provide a foundational social skills program in a supportive and engaging environment while learning alongside peers in a similar age range. Games will be centered around cooperative learning and joint play. Elementary Group This group is enthusiastic about playing and interacting with peers while practicing foundational social skills. Through conversations about experiences at school, during playdates, and at home, participants have opportunities to share their thoughts and learn from one another. Fun, engaging games and activities will be incorporated to help children build communication, turn-taking, flexibility, and other essential social skills in a supportive environment. Tween Group This group is designed for children ages 9–12 years old who are navigating new life experiences, changing emotions, and the many social challenges that can come with this stage of development. The group incorporates high-energy activities and structured games that encourage participants to talk about different moods, experiences, and obstacles they may encounter. Through these activities and guided discussions, participants have opportunities to express their thoughts, learn from their peers, and develop strategies for navigating challenging social situations. Middle School Group This group provides a supportive environment for middle schoolers to navigate the social and emotional challenges that come with this stage of development. Participants will have opportunities to discuss real-life situations they may experience at school, with friends, and at home while learning how to communicate their thoughts and feelings. With helpful guidance and discussions the next step of going to High School. High School The high school group is a welcoming group for those just entering high school as well as those who may be on the way out. Many participants engage in the real world scenarios while facilitating experiences at school and different forms of relationship bonds. Aside from the structured schedule often blast follows, this group also explores the community to help in those social situations. Young Adult The young adult group for adults ages 18- 24 years old is to strengthen their social skills while connecting with peers in a similar stage of life. Participants will have opportunities to discuss real-life experiences involving friendships, communication, independence, work, and navigating social situations. Through group activities, conversations, and hands-on experiences, participants can practice expressing themselves, understanding different perspectives, building confidence, and developing meaningful connections with others. Aside from the structured schedule often blast follows, this group also explores the community to help in those social situations. High Support This group would be a great opportunity to facilitate participants who benefit from a smaller group. Participants will have opportunities to build friendships in a supportive and engaging environment with structured games and activities.For more information on locations and schedules, please click here: https://blastprograms.org/locations/
For information on fees and regional center funding: https://blastprograms.org/rates/
