Blog
Building Connection Through Social Skills Groups: A Journey of Growth, Friendship, and Empowerment
August 12, 2025
In Summer of 2023, as part of a Speech Therapy Performance Improvement workgroup, a team of Speech Therapists at The Children’s Institute spent months diving into evidence-based practices and the most up-to-date research in order to create a social skills program that was developmentally appropriate, affirming, and, above all, meaningful for the children we serve. The result is a thoughtfully designed curriculum for a variety of age ranges that encourages authentic connection and supports each child’s communication style, creating safe spaces for engagement and self-expression. We schedule social skills groups at all locations, Squirrel Hill, Bridgeville, and Norwin Hills.
Each weekly session includes four clients, one speech therapist (in Squirrel Hill, that’s me!), and one incredible rehab tech. These groups have become the highlight of my week. There’s something magical about watching children learn and grow together. Week after week, I’ve seen confidence blossom as laughter fills the room and connections deepen. While our goal wasn’t to force friendships, parents are exchanging numbers and children are asking for playdates. A genuine sense of community has taken root, and it’s a beautiful thing to watch unfold.
As a therapist committed to learning and practicing neurodivergent-affirming care, I’ve always believed that children don’t need to be “fixed.” They need support, understanding, and safe spaces where their unique ways of communicating and interacting with the world are respected and celebrated. The Children’s Institute’s social skills groups reflect that belief. Therapists aren’t here to change who anyone is—we’re here to build confidence, encourage engagement, and foster genuine friendship in a way that honors each child’s individuality.
Being part of the social skills groups has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career as I’ve enjoyed watching families connect, clients thrive, and friendships form. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to facilitate these groups, and I can’t wait to see how they continue to grow.
For more information about our Pediatric Speech Language Therapy program, head to this section of our website: https://www.amazingkids.org/pediatric-speech-therapy-pittsburgh
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