One of the ways I help students develop their social skills is by facilitating a group that helps strengthen their communications abilities. Using interactive, fun activities such as role play, improvisation and other drama exercises to promote social growth, students learn how to effectively communicate with peers, professors and others they may encounter on a regular basis. Our students are incredibly creative, so these activities really make a difference. The results of these sessions are that students develop more confidence in navigating social situations and strengthen their ability to interpret nonverbal behaviors, such as facial expressions or tone of voice.
Social Skills
Another part of my job is to help students develop their social skills through involvement in activities at CLE and in the broader community. Sometimes this involves encouraging students to attend movies, dine-outs, volunteer opportunities, community events, and participate in outdoor activities, among others. I also help students plan and execute their own social events – like our student who planned a Wii and pizza party. We made a guest list, decided where and when to have the party, ordered pizza, and discussed problems the student might run into – and how to cope with them.
Independent Living
I love working at CLE because the staff witnesses both small and large accomplishments every day. We have students who were afraid to walk anywhere by themselves, and now they take the bus – confidently and independently – from their apartment to their school. In Independent Living Skills sessions, students who initially could not boil water are now able to plan, shop for food, and prepare a meal to share with friends. Other students have changed their academic pattern from one of failure to one of success. CLE staff supports students everyday through instruction, encouragement and one-on-one interaction – and the positive growth we see is remarkable.