Integrated Social and Life Skills
Developing Social Skills
Social skills are a foundation of life at Southeast Journeys. Students with Asperger's, High-Functioning Autism, and Nonverbal Learning Disorder have unique needs that often can't be met in a traditional school environment. With more than 25 years of experience helping these teens reach their full potential, Southeast Journeys is an ideal setting to learn to communicate with peers, read social cues, and build confidence.
Our approach to developing social skills is highly personalized, beginning with an individual assessment of a student's current strengths and challenges. This assessment leads to the creation of an individual plan, complete with structured lessons and activities designed to help each student succeed at their own pace. Students learn from modeling, practice, and consistent feedback from peers and staff during structured social skills classes. Our staff also initiates insight-oriented group discussions any time a learning opportunity arises.
The teachers at Southeast Journeys go through a rigorous training process which includes role-playing and team-building exercises, modeling and feedback studies, and practical strategies for developing social skills. Our in-depth staff training doesn't stop with teachers. Comprehensive training involves every staff member from our direct care team to our facilities manager to our entire academic team.
Our Privilege-Based Reward System
The development of primary social skills, from personal hygiene to shopping to socially appropriate behavior with peers, is essential for students with Asperger's, High-Functioning Autism, and related needs. One tool we use at Southeast Journeys to encourage social skills development is our privilege-based rewards system. Each time a student learns a new skill, from problem-solving to independent living skills, he or she can earn privileges within the program. These rewards motivate students and give them the chance to apply what they have learned in the community.
Orientation begins by teaching students the general expectations of the program, starting with basic day-to-day chores. As students demonstrate the ability to manage new responsibilities, they are able to earn privileges such as the ability to manage their allowance, enjoy extra free time, or have a personal tent on trips and expeditions. Over time, students that establish themselves as trustworthy and self-sufficient can reach the Master Craftsman level, where they are expected to manage all aspects of their daily routine with limited support from staff and teachers.
This privilege-based system offers our staff and teachers tools to address the behavioral and social issues commonly confronted by our students. It also gives students a clear set of goals to work toward and a fulfilling sense of accomplishment as new skills are mastered.
Read A Day in the Life of a Southeast Journeys Student
The Importance of Healthy Living
At Southeast Journeys, students practice a healthy, active lifestyle that incorporates exercise, good nutrition, and self-awareness into their daily lives. By making healthy choices part of the daily routine during our program, students develop skills and patterns that translate when they return home.
Learn about Mealtime at Southeast Journeys