Many studies show that social skills, even more than academics are an indicator of a child's success in school, and throughout life. When children are under the age of 10, poorly developed social skills are often overlooked. After the age of 10, poor social skills become much more apparent.
Children may have social skills deficits due to a variety of reasons: limited peers interaction, moving from foster home to foster home, autism or Asperger's syndrome, growing up in a dysfunctional environment, and more. Social skills include greetings, taking turns, showing sympathy, helping others, and being kind.
With guidance and prompting, children can be taught improved social skills but as with so many things, the earlier the better. Social skill development is a series of learning steps. If a 14-year-old has social skill deficits, it's not merely a matter of teaching that skill. There are probably earlier related social skills that they have missed. These need to be taught and developed before the next skill or skills can be taught.
Poor social skills have been attributed to relationship difficulties, mental health issues, high school dropouts, and more. Parents and teachers should work to identify children who are not well liked by their peers - these are often the ones in need of extra social skills training. Discussion and practicing skills, rewarding positive social skills, positive role models, and social skills groups can all be beneficial to a child who is lacking in social skills.
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