Children who struggle with social cognition (how to think in a social context and apply socially related skills) are not able to improve their social skills by simply being around peers with better social skills. Improving social cognition in the camp setting involves a teaching process and requires a multi-faceted approach which requires an understanding of how to:
Engage campers so they will have fun and are receptive to the social learning experience.
Teach campers to develop their social cognition skills through utilizing the best available research-based educational methods.
Focus on the foundational skills that are lacking in children with social learning needs.
Create a space where campers know they are emotionally and physically safe and in a non-punitive, accepting environment amongst staff who understand them.