Why start a social skills program? The question is not why, but why not? With inclusive education becoming the norm in schools nationwide, teachers often struggle to address students non-academic needs, but teachers need ready-to-use lessons that won't interfere with their curriculum. Quest Program II is a social skills program created to help middle school students with autism who struggle with social skills and pragmatic language. Developed by a school social worker and speech language pathologist, the program uses an intensive, proactive approach to teaching social skills, combining written instruction with games, activities, and student interaction. Six helpful units: School Survival Basics, Understanding and Managing Emotions, Communication Skills, Making Friends and Interacting with Peers, Personal Safety, Vocational Readiness can be implemented either chronologically or on their own. Evidence-based research supports the methods used and students have a great time learning-by-doing, through role-play and real-world experience. Parents are kept in the loop with email updates and evaluations. Everyone wins with this program! Best of all, the book includes a CD of printable worksheets, letters, forms, and more! QUEST Program II covers: Greetings, Paying Attention, Daily Hygiene, Asking for Help, Understanding Feelings, Getting Angry/Calming Down, Managing Stress, Starting a Conversation, Making and Keeping Friends, Gossiping, Bullying, and Teasing, Resisting Peer Pressure, Dating, Internet and E-mail Safety, and many more! About the Authors: JoEllen Cumpata is currently a school-based Speech Language Pathologist (SLP). She was formerly a clinical supervisor at Michigan State University, teaching classes related to providing school-based speech and language services. JoEllen also served as a clinical SLP at Massachusetts General Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Boston, working with adults and children. JoEllen has a Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology. Susan Fell has been a school social worker for 15 years working primarily at the middle school level with students with autism, emotional, and cognitive impairments. Prior to that, Susan was a vocational counselor, youth employment coordinator, and parenting educator. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University and her School Social Work Certification from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. |