Are there programs out there that can help an immature, naive child who doesn’t always recognize body language and social cues to become more savvy and assertive. We have tried various social skills groups, and I have not seen any difference. Thank you. Drama, by the way is something she will not attempt, I have tried.
Re: assertiveness training programs?
Hi Kathy,
I also have a child who could use some guidance on assertiveness and social skills. My daughter has add and has actually done well making friends but I see her lacking in social skills like looking someone in the eye when they talk to you or saying thank-you loud enough for the giver to hear. We have had our daughter in girl scouts since kindergarten. She has taken acting and sports which I think helped and I am always ready to have friends over to interact. She doesn’t usually want to try new things but I make her and she is always glad she did. It is a struggle but it is worth it. Perhaps you could find an acting class that is just mainly about having fun, acting silly, within a small group of kids. That’s what my daughter experienced and ended up loving it. What age is your daughter?
Re: assertiveness training programs?
You sound like such a great mom. Good for you in encouraging your daughter to try new things, go to girl scouts, and so forth.
She might like American Girl magazine and some of the books they publish or have taken over publishing. You can find them 0n the web at their site. Look it up on www.google.com or in a book store.
Also New Moon is a great magazine for girls, though a bit expensive. Check the site on line.
Ann G.
I haven’t heard of any groups specifically for assertiveness, but you might think of activities (like drama!) that can help build similar skills- leadership, independence, self- reliance, self- control, self- esteem, etc. Martial arts, girl scouts, and sports come to mind, but there may be other opportunties in your community and her school. Check with the school adjustment counselor and school psychologist. She could also work on this issue in a 1:1 counseling situation. The counselor could then fine tune the intervention to her particular needs. Good luck- you are right to recognize the importance of assertiveness.