Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD®)

Supporting Social Growth Through Guided Peer Interaction

At the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD®), we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow socially and emotionally in a supportive, inclusive environment. Our Social Skills Group is designed to do just that, help children learn, practice, and build meaningful connections with their peers.

This Group is Ideal for Children of All Ages Who:

  • Are diagnosed with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
  • Have social communication disorders
  • Experience non-verbal learning challenges

 

Whether your child is new to group learning or needs support navigating social situations, this program is built to meet them where they are. Our curriculum targets key areas of social development, including:

  • Turn-Taking and Active Listening
    Practicing how to engage and respond thoughtfully in group conversations
  • Reciprocal Conversation Skills
    Learning how to initiate, maintain, and take turns during conversations
  • Managing Social Anxiety
    Identifying physiological signs of anxiety and using tools to self-regulate in social settings
  • Peer Interaction
    Opportunities to grow alongside children with similar social profiles, promoting understanding and friendship

For some individuals on the autism spectrum, social interaction does not come naturally and can feel confusing, overwhelming, or stressful. Social Skills Groups provide a structured, supportive environment where these skills can be explicitly taught, practiced, and reinforced, something that may be difficult to achieve in unstructured settings like school or playgrounds.

Through guided peer interaction and evidence-based strategies, children learn how to read social cues, manage anxiety, take turns in conversation, and build meaningful relationships at their own pace. This service is often recommended to help bridge the gap between individual therapy and real-world social experiences, giving children the tools and confidence they need to participate more fully at school, at home, and in their communities.

Strong social skills are foundational to success at school, at home, and in the community. Through structured guidance, children gain confidence, emotional insight, and the ability to thrive in new or challenging environments.

Our Social Skills Group isn’t just a program, it’s a place where your child can feel seen, supported, and empowered. Let us help unlock their full potential, one skill at a time.