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Holiday Social Skills Workshop

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Lesson Plan

Holiday Social Skills Workshop

Social skills around the holidays

This lesson focuses on enhancing social skills among teens during the holiday season. It is designed to help students navigate social interactions, which can be particularly challenging during holiday gatherings. By using conversation starters and guided discussions, students will learn to engage more comfortably and effectively in social settings. This lesson is important as it provides practical tools and strategies for students, especially those with autism, to improve their social interactions and build confidence.

Audience

Teens

Time

25 minutes

Approach

Materials

Discussion Guide, and Printable Conversation Starters

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Welcome students and introduce the topic of social skills during the holidays.
  • Explain the importance of being able to engage in conversations during holiday gatherings.

Step 2

Discussion

10 mins

  • Use the Discussion Guide to facilitate a conversation about common social scenarios during the holidays.
  • Encourage students to share their experiences and thoughts on holiday interactions.

Step 3

Conversation Starters Activity

5 mins

Step 4

Closure

5 mins

  • Recap the key points discussed and practiced during the lesson.
  • Encourage students to use these skills in upcoming holiday events.
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Discussion

Holiday Discussion Guide

A guide to facilitate a discussion on social skills during the holidays, focusing on common scenarios and challenges.

What are some common social situations you encounter during the holidays?

Encourage students to think about family gatherings, parties, and other social events.







How do you usually start a conversation in these settings?

Discuss different strategies and the importance of a good conversation starter.







What challenges do you face in holiday social interactions?

Guide students to share personal experiences and brainstorm solutions.







How do you handle uncomfortable social situations during the holidays?

Encourage students to think about strategies for managing awkward or tense interactions.







Can you share an experience where a holiday interaction didn't go as planned? How did you handle it?

Discuss the importance of staying calm and finding ways to redirect the conversation or situation.







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Worksheet

Printable Conversation Starters

A set of cards with conversation starters to help students practice initiating conversations during holiday gatherings.




What's your favorite holiday tradition?







Have you ever traveled for the holidays? Where did you go?







What's the best gift you've ever received?







Do you have a favorite holiday movie?







What's your favorite holiday food?







How do you usually celebrate New Year's Eve?




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lenny