Social Skills Training?

[cavs]

Hi,
I have 7 1/2 yr old boy in 2nd grade. He's on Concerta & Strattera. About a week ago he's been speaking up in class again. He knew I had a conversation w/his teacher this morning, as a result, he had a much better day. Which makes us think he can controll his behavior & it's not the meds not working. His teacher suggested that he start going to the school conselor in regards to his behavior. Tyler is very smart, brags about it & states what he thinks (not always politically correct).
Has anyone had any experience w/social skills training from a school counselor? Does it work? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

Debbie

[svh]

My son has gone to "friendship group" once a week for four years now. They pull four boys (and four girls, but separately) from class and they play board/card games, chat, etc. It helps them improve conflict resolution skills, as well as compassionate listening, etc. I think it can only help! I had it written into his IEP, since I feel that he's coming along well, but that this is still a valuable part of his education. Since so many kids do it at our school, it isn't a stigma at all. DS is happy beecause the counselor gives them each a lollipop at the end. He's easily pleased....

[cavs]

Thank you soo much for your reply. After reading your posting - I feel much better about trying this. You're right - it can hurt & hopefully can help. And yes I was worried about the stigma. Thanks again
Debbie

[svh]

Glad to help. I for one am in favor of my son getting all the help possible. His school is remarkably generous w/ "help," so many, many kids get pulled out for one reason or another, and none of them seem to feel too badly about it.

Remember, if after a month or so your child seems very negative about the sessions, you can look into it further and possibly end them. I'd be very positive about them for now, though, so he gives it a chance.

Personally, I think SOOOO much of their attitude toward their problems has to do with the "spin" we put on things! So get spinning!

[MomX2]

Do you understand in what way the medications are supposed to work? It seems to be quite a confusing issue for most of us. Generally most if not all kids with ADHD can "control" their behavior at least part of the time. The problem comes in when they become distracted, overwhelmed and/or frustrated and forget about that control until it's too late. Later they may feel guilty, feel as though they are a "bad kid" if they internalize or feel you are a "mean parent/teacher" if they tend to blame others for their loss of control. The medication can help kids think more clearly, more often so they have the chance to think before they react. Combined with social skills training, counseling and other helpful activities the medication can often make a big difference. It can also sometimes help your child think before reacting when socializing with other kids.

So yes, social skills training can make a big difference. Where ADHD is concerned it's more likely to be helpful combined with medication. At least that is what the studies seem to show so far. The more help kids with ADHD have, the better the outcome.