Improve Social Skills With Improv! for Neurodiverse Kids (ASD, ADHD, ADD, 2e)

Please note that this is a very different kind of class than most social skills. There are no explicit skills taught. For that type of experience, my Friendship Facts class is an option.

None of us have a script to follow of how our days will unfold, or what we will do or what we will say. This certain uncertainty can be  extremely daunting and difficult for neurodiverse kids.
Thankfully, the core qualities of Improvisation (Improv) address these very topics. One has to be "present" in the moment and adjust responses accordingly, in a safe, playful atmosphere.


1) Flexibility in thinking, less rigidity in thought, and becoming comfortable with spontaneity
2) Receptivity to others by showing patience,  tolerance, social awareness, empathy, and kindness
3) Adaptability which helps build off strengths 
4) Connection with others in a safe environment with a leveled social playing field
5) Listening- learning to really listen to another person, as well as listen to your own intuition. No one is ever forced to participate. Students can watch until they feel comfortable. 
6) Being in the moment and thinking on the spot
7) Creativity, imagination, and silliness!
8)  Increases awareness of non-verbal cues and body language
9) Encourages making safe "mistakes" and attempting interactions without pressure
10) Self esteem and self confidence by learning to see yourself non-judgmentally 
11) Impulse control and attention span- short games with a clear beginning and end
12) Emotion regulation skills by a neutral way to talk about emotions

The best part is there are no wrong answers in Improv! Improv, which at it's very heart is playful and non-judgmental, is the perfect vehicle to work on social skills and experience an array of emotions in a safe, non-threatening way.

I have completed a professional development seminar in the use of Improv techniques for kids on the spectrum. It was an amazing experience, and I'm excited to share this with my students.