Program Description: Social Skills Learning Groups for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Grades 6-12

• The program focuses on helping adolescents develop greater awareness and understanding of the hidden curriculum (the unwritten rules and expectations for social behavior in middle school and high school).
• The program will help adolescents improve skills in social interaction, social problem-solving and dealing with everyday life experiences.
• Participants are limited to those without delays in communication and cognition.
• Assessment will occur at the start and conclusion of the 10-week term.
• The program includes 2 peer mentors who will participate in the weekly sessions along with 6-8 youngsters who have difficulties in social relating.
• Dr. Susan DeLuke from The College of Saint Rose will co-facilitate the weekly meetings with the adolescent peer mentor.
• The curriculum and activities are developed and presented by the peer mentor and will address "adolescent perspectives" rather than "adult perspectives of adolescent issues."
• Sessions include discussion, role play, direct teaching and games as methods of instruction.
• Homework assignments are a mandatory and important part of the program. These are given each week and carried out with the cooperation of family members and school staff.
• Regular attendance is important.