Youngsters offered chance to improve social skills

Workshops to help children aged seven to 12 improve their social skills are available at The University of Queensland.

The UQ Behaviour Research and Therapy Centre is offering a series of 10 sessions over 10 weeks.

The sessions include an initial interview with a psychologist, eight small-group treatment sessions (grouped according to age), one follow-up session and eight parent sessions, run at the same time as the children`s groups

Through the workshops, parents learn the strategies being taught to their child, so that they can help apply them at home.

Consulting psychologist Dr Vanessa Cobham who specialises in the treatment of children, adolescents and families, said research had shown that poor social skills were often related to poor academic performance.

Signs of poor social skills included trouble in making friends or relating to other children of their age, refusing to go to school and not being invited to parties, Dr Cobham said.

It could lead to sadness, depression, anxiety, anger and problematic behaviour, she said.

“Improving children`s social skills, not only improves their self esteem and self confidence, but also helps them develop conversational skills, understand social rules and develop tolerance for other children,” Dr Cobham said.

The cost of $200 per family includes the initial interview, group sessions, handouts, and pizza for the final session. If more than one child in the family attends, a reduced rate applies for each additional child.

The initial session ensures the program is appropriate for each child. If it is found the program is not the most effective way to treat a child`s difficulties, there is a charge of $40. An appropriate referral will then be discussed with the family.

Each session, from either 10am on Saturdays or 5.30pm on Mondays, lasts about one-and-a-half hours.

Media: For more information, please phone Deborah Hopf on (07) 3365 6451 or 0408 45 838507.