At OTHC, one of the areas we frequently support children in is social participation—and it’s not just limited to children with a formal diagnosis. We see children of all ages and neurotypes who may find it challenging to connect with peers, read social cues, or regulate their emotions during everyday interactions.
To meet this need, we’ve launched our Social Skills and Emotional Regulation Holiday Groups for children aged 4 to 11. These small group sessions draw on evidence-informed programs such as Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking® framework, alongside current research in emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
What Is ‘Social Thinking’—and Why Does It Matter?
Social Thinking refers to how we make sense of our own and others’ thoughts, emotions, and intentions, and use that understanding to guide how we interact. It includes noticing body language, understanding social expectations, and adjusting our behaviour based on context.
While many children learn these skills intuitively, others benefit from explicit teaching, modelling, and opportunities to practise in a safe, supported environment. These skills help children:
- Build meaningful friendships
- Work effectively with others
- Navigate conflict
- Experience a sense of belonging at home, school, and in the community
Why Might My Child Find Social Situations Difficult?
Social communication doesn’t come naturally to every child—and that’s okay. Some children may find it hard to interpret others’ social cues or respond in ways that are expected in each situation. Others may struggle to identify and regulate their own emotions or understand how their feelings influence others.
Our goal is not to “fix” these differences, but to support children in building awareness, confidence, and connection. We help them develop tools that feel authentic and empowering.
What’s the Link Between Social Skills and Emotional Regulation?
When a child finds it challenging to recognise or express how they’re feeling, it can impact their ability to respond calmly or flexibly in different situations. Emotional regulation is a key part of social connection: it helps children manage their reactions, understand others’ feelings, and resolve conflict more effectively.
Our groups include activities that support both emotional awareness and social communication, recognising how closely these areas are linked.
Could Your Child Benefit from Social Support?
Every child is different. However, if you’ve noticed any of the following, it may be helpful to explore social skills support:
- May need extra support to make or maintain friendships
- Withdrawing or seeming uncomfortable in social situations
- May process or interpret body language or tone of voice differently
- Show behaviours that don’t align with typical social expectations (e.g., interrupting, walking away, or focusing intently on a specific topic)
- Require extra support to understand others’ perspectives
- Prefer independent play or require extra support to engage in group activities
- Express overwhelm in social settings
- Require extra support to recognise social cues, like when to take turns in conversation
If one or more of these feels familiar, your child may benefit from targeted, affirming support in a nurturing environment.
How We Can Help
Our Social Skills and Emotional Regulation Holiday Groups offer a playful, inclusive space for children to build self-awareness, confidence, and connection with others. We tailor our approach to meet each child where they’re at, using strengths-based strategies and lots of opportunities to practise in fun, low-pressure ways.
To learn more or book a spot in our upcoming groups reach out to us at (02) 9913 3823 or at hello@occupationaltherapy.com.au. We’d love to connect with you and support your child’s social journey.
