I'm wondering if anyone has a recommendation on a social skills group for my 11 year old daughter. She's been diagnosed ADD, but also has some comparatively mild aspergers-type social limitations (I may be stating that wrong.) We tried something a couple years ago where we used to live, but the other children in the group had more severe issues so she really didn't learn much. Since the cost was so high and beneifit was so low it was hard to justify the expenditure. As she moves into the preteen years, we know how important it is for her to be able to improve her skills in confidently interacting with her peers. We're hoping to find something more tailored to her level of abilities.
Also, because we are seeing this social issue, I'm wondering if I should have her formally evaluated for aspergers. I have mixed feelings because I know what her issues are, so I don't think it changes anything within our household. I'm just wondering if there is a risk/benefit to taking on a diagnostic label.
The Brent Woodall Foundation in Coppell has social skills groups for all ages and is very affordable. It is a non-profit.
My son is autistic so on the spectrum too but not as high functioning as an aspergers child. Only get a label if it will help you get services. Do consider biomedical treatment as well. A very readable book is Kenneth Bock's Healing the New Childhood Epidemics:Autism, Asthma, ADHD and Allergies.
Hi S.!
I know that is hard for you and your daughter live with her health issues. Did you check natural remedies for your daughter? You could find few natural products for Aspergers ____@____.com . Recently I discover great nutritional product with easy absorbed vitamins and minerals. They have one special product for children. I've met peoples who's kids with ADD (and other problems) got amazing results. I use that product for my health issues and I am very happy with results. I be happy to answer questions for you.
W.
Hi S.,
There is a place called Center for Social Success in Plano.
Lara
Hi S.,
I have been in education for 25+ years. I taught regular and special ed and was guidance coordinator for the largest school in the world for students with learning differences. I am a parenting coach and would love to assist you.
I teach a summer camp for girls called United in Friendship where I assist girls to improve their self-concept and teach them the strategies to negotiate healthy relationships. Skills include: effective communication strategies, conflict resolution, creating win-win interactions, and stress management. My email is ____@____.com.
Sincerely,
L.
S.,
I just wanted to encourage you that there are some great opportunities for your daughter in the DFW area (and sorry about the heat, but we make up for it winter time by you never ever ever having to shovel snow!). :)
I have a friend in Plano that is does "neurodevelopmental" work with kids. Her name is Jan Bedell and the website is www.littlegiantsteps.com
She can do an evaluation and give you lots of great ideas, therapies, etc. She works with a lot of kids all over the state. She comes highly recommended and is not one to apply labels, but more to help kids be the best that they can be. Everyone I know that has used her services has had great results and the kids are all very well-adjusted.
Blessings, S.
Yes, have her evaluated both privately (call easter seals or your dr for a diagnostician so your insurance can cover it) and by the school district so she can get services for her needs in school.
Good luck
A. J
Callier Center at UTD in Richardson. Look at the website. But also call Berkley Williams at ###-###-####. I believe she was putting together a social group program for girls in/around 5th grade level!! Good Luck!!
Speaking from a medical standpoint, there are pros and cons to having your daughter "officially diagnosed". Pro - she can begin to recieve any "official" help from schools, govt, etc if she needs. Lots of good things can come of that, but there is always a paper trail that must be followed that usually begins with the "official diagnosis" Con - of course, the lable, but that will only be a negative thing for her if you allow it to be a negative thing for you. ;-) Your daughter can "have" Asberger's Syndrome without "being" Asperger's Syndrome. Good luck to you both and God Bless!! Welcome to TEXAS!!!
I know Our Children's House at Baylor often has classes on social skills for kids of all abilities. I think they go out to dinner and do other things like that to practice. You might give them a call in your area. It would be well worth checking out.
ASk your school if they have Behavioral/Social SKills training through the special education department. I am a Behavior Resource Specialist in Carrollton Farmers Branch and that is exactly what I do with students who qualify. We serve children just like your daughter. So, ask the school. Some private counselors also provide that as well. Ask your child's doctor. Also, you can contact local groups like girl scouts to get your daughter involved. I know Boy Scouts of America are sensitive to boys with difficulties, you should find out of other groups for girls do as well.
Hi S.,
The benefit of the diagnostic label is that she would become eligable for more services, and you would have professionals aware of her needs. They would be able to adapt situations and offer additional support. You will also be informed of a wealth of services and programs.
I am a speech-language pathologist, who worked in the public schools for seven years, before starting my own private practice nine years ago. I had worked with many children that fit your child's description. The parents were so much better informed, because the school staff knew the child's needs, and could inform the parents about new social programs, groups, clubs, etc.
This is an important time to seek services in that area. You daughter is fortunate that you are concerned, and willing to explore a variety of avenues to help her develop to her full potential.
Good Luck!
S.
Work with the school - there are parts of what you are calling social skills that are communication skills - that is part of what a school SLP can work with her on. My dd has similar issues. She has both speech therapy & a special education counselor that work with her on issues specific to her at school & knowing how to communicate with her peers.
