Small Talk, who needs it?  Well, it's helpful for initial connection with people, establishing trust and comfort in a conversation that doesn't require too much vulnerability.  
We will cover the function and practice.  

Class 1: The Bad Rap that Small Talk Gets/Active Listening
Class 2: How to keep it Light and Informal/Freezing Questions and Thawing Questions
Class 3: Convo Killers and lots of practice
Class 4: Let's review what Active Listening looks like and practice taking the conversation into a deeper stage. 


Our style is following Learner strengths and encouraging experimentation in conversation. We will spend the first part of the class presenting the central idea for the week in a slide show.  We will then practice these ideas in conversation in a round table way.  Each learner will practice including everyone in their small talk and in these small groups, everyone will have a turn to practice.  
 
Let us know any specific accommodations as identified by the learner.  Get to know when you need a break and how to be responsive to your own needs.  We will discuss strategies for self-advocacy. 

Please note: this is not to be confused with masking our uniqueness with scripts or forced behavioral changes, we will NOT encourage that. We do not follow ABA Behavioral Intervention practices.  We use a strength based supportive and inclusive approach.  

We sometimes go over our time if the conversation is lively.  

*This class directly relates to the BC Ministry of Education for K–12 Curriculum under: Physical and Health Education Curricular Competencies, and Mental well-being and Social and community health.  In particular we address communication skills, proposing and identifying strategies in social situations, self advocacy and group dynamics. 

**Please be aware that if there are fewer than 2 learners in this class, the section will be cancelled 48 hours before class.  You can sign up for our 1:1 Class here: https://outschool.com/classes/11-small-talk-lets-practice-3NNnjNBF?usid=ww4VN1Zv&signup=true&utm_campaign=share_activity_link