Many parents that come to therapy ask if a group might be helpful for their child. My answer is “it depends”. Before I can fully explain that statement, we need to first know the benefits that groups can provide.
Group programs are an ideal environment for children to work on and develop skills in a low-pressure, real world situation. For instance, some children may find it extremely difficult to communicate, share or play with others. Many developmental skills, including learning, social and speech skills, are closely linked together, and often develop easier when worked on simultaneously. Being in a group allows the honing of these skills, among peers, who may also be struggling in these areas.
Immersing children in this kind of environment can help them progress in their therapy, build friendships, foster a sense of pride in others and build self-esteem in themselves, realizing that they aren’t alone and that they can improve.
So then, if groups seem to have so many benefits, why do I say “it depends” whether groups will be helpful? Well it comes down to group readiness.

If your child is ready for groups, as stated above, the benefits are immense. Many times “in the moment” situations become teachable moments and fantastic learning opportunities for your child.
Some children, due to different factors, may not yet be group ready. They may need one-to-one therapy first, in order to work on skill areas prior to entering a group to make it successful for all involved.
Why might a child not be group ready? Group readiness depends on many factors:
- Are they able to attend and take instruction?
- Is their self-regulation at a level where they can manage themselves for an hour?
- How are they with noise level and multiple children in their space?
We try to have a good picture of the abilities of each child prior to the group running by a good vetting process, in order for the group to be successful. Unfortunately, sometimes a child is deemed not group ready through this process, but our therapy team will make individual recommendations in order for the child to improve, and hopefully, be group ready at a later time.
Our therapists put so much effort into the curriculum and design of each group, so we are well prepared and provide a valuable program to families. Even though groups have a specific focus, there is no denying the development of social and self-regulation skills as the group progresses.
Please check out our array of groups for your child. If you are wondering which one is best, or if your child is group ready, ask your therapist or a teacher.
They may be a perfect match!