Social interactions can be challenging for neurodivergent children — whether due to ADHD, autism, or both — but social skills are just that: skills, and they can be practiced and strengthened over time.

The best part? You don’t need fancy programs or therapy sessions to help your child grow socially. Everyday home activities, when approached with patience and playfulness, can make a big difference.

Here’s how you can start:

✅ Simple Ideas to Strengthen Social Skills

🎲 Practice Turn-Taking Games
Games like board games, card games, or even simple activities like rolling a ball back and forth help kids practice waiting, taking turns, and handling small wins or losses — all key social foundations.

💬 Role-Play Greetings and Small Talk
Set up little “practice rounds” where you greet each other, introduce yourselves, or ask simple questions like “How was your day?” or “What’s your favorite toy?” This builds confidence in starting conversations.

😊 Use Emotion Flashcards
Help your child recognize facial expressions by using flashcards or pictures showing different emotions. Ask: “What do you think this face is feeling?” or “Can you show me a happy/surprised face?”

📺 Watch Shows and Talk About Feelings
During your child’s favorite shows, pause and chat about what the characters are feeling or why they acted a certain way. This boosts emotional understanding and perspective-taking.

👫 Set Up Short, Supported Playdates
Keep social time manageable. Arrange brief, one-on-one playdates with familiar, trusted peers where you can gently guide interactions, offer breaks, and help your child feel successful.

💡 Key Reminder

The goal isn’t perfection or “fixing” your child — it’s creating opportunities for them to practice and grow at their own pace. Keep activities light, positive, and low-pressure, and remember: celebrating small social wins builds long-term confidence.

💛 Final Thought

With a little creativity and lots of encouragement, you can help your neurodivergent child build meaningful social skills right at home — one playful moment at a time.

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