The Better Emotional and Social Times (B.E.S.T) Social Skills Training Program was developed over 30 years ago in response to a need for elementary school age children to have explicit instruction in social skills. Children do not always react appropriately to what happens to and around them. Just as some children have difficulty reading language, some children with learning disabilities have difficulty reading and interpreting body language. This program teaches children through discussion, games, role playing and direct instruction in small groups to interact successfully with others. It teaches children how to fit in to social situations with proper actions and reactions.
The target group for this program is children with, or suspect of having, learning disabilities, including students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children requiring explicit instruction in interpreting body language and facial expressions may also benefit from this program.
Topics may include listening, dealing with anger, peer pressure, accepting consequences, ignoring distractions, cyber bullying, internet safety, coping strategies and more. By enhancing the child’s self-esteem, the program aims to transform children facing challenges in their relationships into socially competent individuals. Children who learn proper social interaction experience better relationships and have a reduced risk of anti-social behaviour, juvenile delinquency and psychological problems later in life.
Through the school year, this program is offered for 10 weeks, one evening per week in the fall (October – December) and spring (March-May). During the summer, this program is offered for two weeks, 1.5 hours running through the day. Students are divided into younger and older groups based on their age. Skills are chosen according to the participants’ needs.
Complete the form below to register your child. Please note that registration is not complete until payment has been received and staff have contacted you to confirm there is room for your child in the program(s).
We work with the A.L.L. for Kids program which may help cover fees for this program. Visit www.chatham-kent.ca/allforkids for more information.
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Resources
- A.L.L. for Kids Program Visit