Middle school is a crucial period for social development, presenting both challenges and opportunities for neurodivergent children including students with autism,  ADHD, OCD, Anxiety, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Non-Verbal Learning Disorders, Giftedness plus Twice-Exceptionality, Specific Learning Disabilities, and related other conditions. As they navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships, developing social skills becomes a key focus in their education. 

At Cumberland Academy of Georgia, we have developed highly effective strategies for fostering social skills in neurodiverse middle school children, emphasizing the importance of ongoing, daily support and understanding.

Creating  an Inclusive Environment

Establishing an inclusive and accepting environment is fundamental to the development of social skills in neurodivergent middle schoolers. Encourage empathy, kindness, and understanding among peers, fostering an atmosphere where differences are celebrated rather than stigmatized. Cumberland faculty and counselors understand this and the crucial role of the ripple effect of how positively influences our students.

Structured Social Skills Programs

Cumberland faculty and counselors implement social skills within the school curriculum which provides our middle school students with targeted support. These approaches may include instruction on communication, understanding of social cues, and navigating social situations. Weaving these programs into our student’s daily lives ensures that they receive meaningful and practical guidance.

Peer Mentoring Programs

Our counselors provide structured peer mentoring programs that facilitate positive social interactions by pairing our middle school students with high school peers. This approach promotes understanding and creates opportunities for everyone to learn from their peers while developing essential social skills. Peer mentors serve as role models and provide valuable support in navigating the intricacies of social relationships.

We are proud of the inclusive environment we have developed as we consistently see positive outcomes for our children. Our strategies support all Cumberland students with ongoing social development and contribute to their long-term success in an inclusive world.