What is a strategy paraeducators can use to help students with social skills?

Role-playing and social stories are effective strategies for paraeducators to assist students in developing social skills. Role-playing allows students to practice various social scenarios in a safe and structured environment. This method helps students learn appropriate responses, understand social cues, and explore different perspectives, all of which are crucial components of effective social interaction.

Social stories complement this by providing narratives that outline specific social situations and appropriate responses in a clear and understandable format. By engaging with these stories, students can visualize and mentally rehearse how to navigate real-life interactions. This dual approach fosters a greater understanding of social norms and enhances confidence in social situations, ultimately promoting better relationships with peers and adults alike.