Eliminate The Stress Of Small Talk With A Fun Game!
Struggling with awkward conversations at holiday gatherings? A simple deck of cards might be the solution!
At Simply Social Kids, we believe social skills coaching goes beyond teaching kids how to make friends and enjoy pleasant interactions; it also involves addressing the challenging and sometimes uncomfortable aspects of personal hygiene and social behavior. While we love focusing on the fun parts of socializing, there are essential lessons that need to be covered to help our kids navigate social situations smoothly and confidently. Here are some of the less pleasant topics we tackle:
Many kids have the habit of using their feet to fidget. Our activities might include objects like flat marbles or poker chips, and we have to remind kids not to put them between their toes. In the summer months, we routinely remind kids that wearing sandals does not mean they can pick or play with their toes. It’s unhygienic, and we don’t want our cards, toys, or manipulatives to come into contact with feet. This can be distracting to others and is socially inappropriate. We coach our kids to find other, less intrusive ways to manage their restlessness.
For boys, placing hands in pockets can sometimes lead to touching their privates, often unconsciously. We teach them to keep their hands in their side pockets only, helping them to avoid any embarrassing or inappropriate behavior.
For our preteen and teenage girls, the topic of wearing bras is crucial. We privately discuss the importance of proper fit and comfort, as well as the social norms associated with wearing bras. They may be unaware of how much they are revealing if not wearing a bra while leaning forward to play a game, for example. This conversation can be sensitive, but it’s vital for their confidence and self-esteem.
Nose picking is a common but socially unacceptable habit. We address this behavior head-on, teaching kids the importance of using tissues and the proper way to excuse themselves if they need to address an itch or discomfort.
Kids might think that no one notices when they pass gas or that no one knows who did it. However, it is usually quite obvious. We encourage them to use the bathroom for this bodily function to avoid embarrassing themselves and others.
Scab picking not only looks unsightly but can also lead to infections and prolonged healing times. It’s unsanitary, and we are not equipped to deal with open wounds. It can also result in blood on our furniture and games. We help our kids understand why this behavior should be avoided.
Dandruff can be a source of embarrassment for many kids. We’ve had participants who scratch their heads to create dandruff on the table, not realizing that this is socially unacceptable.
Body odor can be a sensitive issue, especially for kids going through puberty. We teach the importance of regular bathing, using deodorant/antiperspirant, and wearing clean clothes. By understanding personal hygiene, kids can feel more comfortable and confident in social settings. Keeping clean is one of the easier aspects of socializing for many kids.
At Simply Social Kids, we understand that these topics might not be the most pleasant to discuss, but they are essential for the overall social development of our kids. By addressing these behaviors directly and compassionately, we help our kids feel more confident and prepared for any social situation they might encounter. Our goal is to ensure that every child can interact with others comfortably and without unnecessary embarrassment, paving the way for healthier and happier social lives.
If you have a child/teen/young adult with has difficulty making friends, contact us for a free trial at 978-764-2758 or schedule an intake https://calendly.com/simplysocialkids/let-s-connect
