ASPEN is a 10-week social skills training group for 12-17 year old youth with a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum including Asperger’s Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) or Non-verbal learning disability.
Staff create a safe and supportive environment for youth to learn and practice social skills through a combination of role-playing, group interaction, community outings and listening to guest speakers. Our individually-focused, strengths-based approach teaches each youth how to communicate, problem solve and resolve conflicts as well as set appropriate boundaries. Family members then support and reinforce their youth’s development with enjoyable homework activities.
At the conclusion of the program, youth feel more confident and comfortable when meeting new people, handling criticism, resolving conflict and managing their emotions. Families usually notice an increase in their child’s social skills, improved relationships and an enhanced quality of home life.
Progress through Feedback
On a weekly basis, staff contact parents or guardians to review progress and discuss suggestions of how the family can support their youth in applying their new skills in day-to-day life. This communication reinforces each youth’s progress and helps Lutherwood continually adjust the group sessions based on client needs to improve effectiveness.
The ASPEN group uses activity, discussion and other forms of experiential learning to help youth feel more competent and comfortable in the following areas:
- Making introductions
- Giving and receiving feedback
- Perceptions of others
- Getting along with others
- Conversations skills
- Making positive choices
A Typical Group
Group begins with a healthy snack. Social interactions are encouraged through the use of board games and discussions.
Check in occurs with group members to review and discuss the skill taught from the previous week. Group members are encouraged to practice the skill through role-playing and other skill based activities.
At the end of each group, members take turns to discuss what they learned and how they felt about group. This is also an opportunity for the facilitator to provide members with feedback regarding their participation in the session. In preparation for the following week, the facilitators discuss the next session.
Referrals
Please contact Front Door at 519-749-2932 Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm for more information on accessing this program.
Fees
ASPEN is provided at no cost to families and is funded by The Ministry of Children and Youth as well as the Lutherwood Child and Family Foundation.
