How can I improve my social skills ?

  • Is the PEERS® program right for me ?

    The PEERS® social skills program is for Teens 13 - 17 yrs, Adults 18-30 yrs and Over 30s who experience social challenges related to ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression and/or learning difficulties.

    If you are motivated to learn how to make friends this program will give you the necessary skills.

    To ensure age appropriate content there is a teen program and a young adult program.

    PEERS® social skills program (Program for Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is a well researched, evidence based highly successful approach to teaching the skills required to make and keep friends.

  • Can I join PEERS® this year?

    Yes !

    In 2024 South Coast Social Skills will be offering the following programs:

    PEERS® for Teens 13 - 17 years 14 week program

    PEERS® for Young Adults 18 - 30 years 16 week program including a dating component

    PEERS® for the over 30s 16 week program including a dating component

    Register your interest today !

    Sessions will be held at Thirroul Community Centre and Library on Saturday mornings from April 2024

  • What is involved?

    You will need to attend 14/16 x 90 minute weekly face to face sessions in a small group.

    You will need a Social Coach who could be a parent, friend, support worker or sibling to support you for the duration of the course.

    Social Coaches have a separate 60 min session with the course facilitator.

    Homework exercises to practice what you have learnt.

    Role play the dos and don’ts of friendship.

  • What will I learn?

    How to develop and maintain friendships

    How to improve conversational skills

    How to manage arguments and disagreements with friends

    How to use social media, texts and emails appropriately

    How to manage rumours and gossip

    How to manage teasing and bullying

    How to use appropriate humour

    How to organise successful get-togethers

    How to be a good sport

    Learn dating etiquette (young adult group)

  • NDIS Participants

    If you are an NDIS participant you may be able to access this program via your plan if you are self or plan-managed and have the relevant funding.