Academy MetroWest
    HomeProgramOutreachStaffContact UsResources

SOCIAL SKILLS PROGRAM

Counselor and kidsCounselors at Academy MetroWest employ cooperative and collaborative physical activity as a tool to help children connect with their peers in positive and healthy ways. Group leaders establish supportive relationships with children in their groups that focus on strengths. In the context of this relationship, counselors provide direct feedback and direction in real time, helping children become more aware of their behavior and the effect it has on other group members. Our goal is to help children make changes that will lead to more social success and a stronger sense of self-esteem.

We conduct groups for children aged 6–15. Our groups can be helpful to children from all across the developmental spectrum including those with ADHD, Non-verbal Learning Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and others. We also work with children who do not have a formal diagnosis but who may need help and support to improve their social skills in order to connect more effectively with their peers.

Groups
social skills program in actionChildren enrolled in Academy MetroWest are placed in small activity groups which typically range from four to seven children. Groups are homogeneous in nature, with children being matched up based upon their age, physical ability, and social/emotional development. This arrangement enables children to attain concrete success while feeling safe and challenged, but not overwhelmed. Groups meet once a week for an hour and fifteen minutes and are led by trained mental health professionals. Activity groups are offered on weekdays after school hours as well as on Saturday mornings.

Benefits of the Program
Children who attend Academy MetroWest may benefit in one or more of the following ways:

  • Develop and enhance positive social skills
  • Improve sense of self-esteem
  • Develop physical self-confidence
  • Improve body image
  • Channel and focus energy constructively
  • Become more cooperative
  • Increase frustration tolerance
  • Improve communication skills
  • Reduce stress and set realistic expectations
  • Learn problem solving skills

Enrollment & Fees
An initial interview involving the child and parent(s) is required for enrollment. Information from this interview is used as a guide in determining the best possible group placement for the child. There is Group in actiona $75.00 fee for this session which lasts approximately one hour. This initial interview can be arranged by calling us at (508) 655-9200 Monday through Friday between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm.

Fees
For 2007-2008, the fee for an activity group (which meets once a week for an hour and fifteen minutes) is $52 per week. Fees are collected on a pre-pay basis. Visa/Mastercard is accepted. Fee adjustments can be made on the basis of financial need.

9 Tech Circle, Natick, MA | 508-655-9200
email: academymetrowest@yahoo.com

Client Testimonial

Sample Activity
An original activity designed by our staff that addresses problem solving, risk taking, and teamwork in an enjoyable, imaginative context

Creative Adventures Summer Program
A cooperative and non-competitive approach to children's recreation.