Camp teaches social skills to children with autism
June 23rd, 2006
For 16 children with autism spectrum disorder, summer camp this month was about more than crafts and other typical camp activities.
For them, camp also was about learning social skills and nuances, such as making eye contact, listening to others and engaging in conversation. Camp SS (Social Skills) STAR was offered by the Systematic Treatment for Autism and Related Disorders (STAR) program at the University of Louisville’s Weisskopf Child Evaluation Center and funded with a gift from The Woman’s Club of Louisville.
Children with autism spectrum disorders typically exhibit significant social and communication problems, as well as limited interests and activities. They often lack the social skills necessary to make friends, hold a conversation or feel empathy for others. Unless they are taught correct social cues, their peers and adults may ostracize them because they are perceived as rude or different. The disorder affects approximately one in 166 children.
“Social skills are the best predictor of success in adulthood for all people and especially for people with autism,” said Lisa Ruble, director of STAR. “By teaching correct social behavior, we’re helping them develop skills they will need to become successful adults.”
In addition to participating in typical camp activities, children spent three hours each day in class learning such skills as how to end a conversation, listen actively and negotiate with others.
Campers were matched with peer models: children who were taught how to illustrate correct social and communication skills and encourage participation. Camp leaders included a psychologist, occupational therapist, special educator and other staff members from STAR, along with volunteer teen counselors from Louisville Collegiate School and volunteers from The Woman’s Club, said Grace Mathai, camp director.
Although the children had fun, said Gisela Goldstein, director of program development at STAR, they worked hard to acquire new skills and understand social nuances.
“These children realize they are treated differently by their classmates, and it’s heartbreaking for them. They so desperately want to be accepted for who they are,” she said. “The skills taught by STAR helps them fit in better with their peers.”
Parents were amazed with the progress their children made in just two weeks.
One mother said her son made his first real friend at camp.
“He woke up and said he was concerned about how hard” another camper had worked on a project. “I was so happy — he cares about someone else’s feelings. He’s never connected with anyone before,” she said.
