Social Skills & Emotion Regulation for 3rd-5th Graders

As children move into the upper elementary years, friendships become more complex. Social dynamics shift. Peer groups solidify. Expectations for independence increase.

For many kids, this stage can feel confusing, frustrating, or overwhelming.

Our 3rd–5th Grade Social Skills Group is designed to support children as they build deeper, more meaningful peer relationships while strengthening the emotional and cognitive skills needed to navigate increasingly nuanced social situations.

This group focuses on:

• Relationship building and maintenance — understanding reciprocity, perspective-taking, and how to initiate and sustain friendships
• Social cognition — reading social cues, interpreting tone and body language, and understanding unspoken social rules
• Emotion regulation skills — managing frustration, rejection, embarrassment, and social anxiety
• Flexible thinking — handling unexpected changes, resolving conflict, and adapting in group settings
• Mindfulness for kids - simple, age-appropriate strategies for noticing feelings, pausing before reacting, and staying grounded during social or emotional challenges

Led by two therapists who each specialize in child development and social-emotional learning, this group provides structured, guided opportunities for real-time peer interaction, reflection, and skill-building in a supportive environment. 

Grounded in an affirming, strengths-based approach, each child’s unique personality, communication style, and emerging sense of self will be honored, ensuring they feel supported in developing their own individual identities and relational style.

Our goal is not simply to teach “social skills,” but to help children feel more secure, capable, and confident in who they are and in how they relate to others.