Social Skills Groups
Current ABSI Social Groups:
- Giggle Group (Toddler – Preschool)
- Let’s L.A.F.F.™ (Elementary School, Middle School, High School)
- Adult Group
The Foundation Of Our Group
The foundation of our social groups relies on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to help improve social behaviors in children with an autism spectrum disorder or other disorders. Our social groups were founded for children who demonstrate social deficits such as reading social cues of others, engaging in conversations, and navigating their environment.
As a result, many individuals who suffer from these deficits experience stress, negative responses from others, and at times failure when attempting to interact with others socially. We often times will hear people comment that the children may want to be alone or that they do not want friends. It is our experience as professionals in the field of applied behavior analysis that this is simply not true. It is our contention that if those affected by social deficits knew how to make and keep friends then they would. However, it is their inability to successfully interact with others that prevents them from accessing the positive reinforcement that comes from an effective social interaction with another person. In addition, because social behaviors are quite complex and changing based on age, context, and/or group, this makes them even more unpredictable and difficult to master, generalize, and maintain. Ultimately learning social behaviors is a process that takes time and patience.
Layout Of Our Groups
We structure our groups so that each participant is accessing the full potential social interaction among their peers. Each group is designed to have their own lessons, topics, and structure based on development level, age, and needs.
Our groups are organized in a way that involves social facilitation and support as it is required by the participants in the group. The groups incorporate a theme each month that focuses on a very specific social behavior. The groups start off with free play/catching up with friends, a structured lesson plan on the social behavior of interest (this includes introduction of the social behavior/ review of the social behavior, brief discussion, in vivo modeling or video modeling, role play, and in-vivo practice), group activity/game, and closing. Individualized goals as well as group goals are addressed each session.
Common Topics Of Our Groups
The Giggle Group helps young children build social confidence through play and laughter. Sessions include games, art, and movement activities that encourage sharing, turn-taking, and positive interaction.
Guided by trained behavior professionals, children learn how to express emotions and connect with peers in ways that feel natural and fun. The goal is to create a joyful space where social learning happens through everyday play.
Let’s Laff is designed for elementary age students and teens who are ready to expand their communication skills in group settings. Activities include role-playing, group discussions, and collaborative challenges that encourage empathy and teamwork.
Participants practice initiating conversations, maintaining friendships, and understanding social cues. This group focuses on helping young people gain confidence in real-world interactions while building a sense of belonging and mutual respect.
The Adult Group supports adults with autism who want to strengthen social connections and independence.
Members participate in guided conversations, community outings, and collaborative projects that foster communication, self-advocacy, and everyday problem-solving skills.
Each session is structured to build comfort in social environments while creating meaningful friendships. The group also serves as a supportive network where adults can share experiences and celebrate progress together.
Our Autism Services
The process of systematically applying interventions or improve behaviors.
We assist with understanding autism, behavior services, elopement in autism and more.
ABSI groups focus on social-emotional and behavioral growth.
The trainings can be provided over the course of one day or several days.
Our Autism Services
The process of systematically applying interventions or improve behaviors.
We assist with understanding autism, behavior services, elopement in autism and more.
ABSI groups focus on social-emotional and behavioral growth.
The trainings can be provided over the course of one day or several days.
Testimonials
Our experience with Autism Behavior Services Inc has been a FANTASTIC one!
Your Nor Cal team rocks and we appreciate each of the providers. Your team is trained, professional, on time, supportive and caring!
All the things one would expect but rarely find in the current ABA climate. Your company is doing things right and my kiddo is making progress because of it.
FAQ
Are these groups offered virtually and in-person?
What happens during a typical Giggle Group session?
How does the Giggle Group support early social growth?
What types of activities are in Let’s L.A.F.F.?
How does Let’s L.A.F.F. help with real-life situations?
How does Let’s L.A.F.F. prepare kids for school life?
What can adults expect in the social group sessions?
How does the Adult Group support everyday communication?
Can clients and families take part in volunteer events?
How does ABSI give back to the communities they serve?
