How ABA Therapy can be used in Social Skills Classes to teach social-emotional skills
In Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy, developing social skills in structured social skills classes goes beyond teaching turn-taking or eye contact — it begins with understanding emotions. When children, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), learn to recognise, express, and regulate emotions, they become better equipped to connect with others, manage conflict, and build meaningful relationships.
Why Emotional Skills Matter in Social Skills Classes
1. Recognising Emotions: The First Step to Connection
Children need to understand what emotions look and feel like to engage meaningfully with others in social skills groups.
Why it matters: When children can identify emotions — like frustration, joy, or sadness — they’re more likely to respond appropriately in peer settings.
How ABA therapy helps in social skills classes:
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Modelling and role-play scenarios to teach emotional cues
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Visual tools like emotion cards or mirrors
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Natural environment teaching to practise in real-life contexts
2. Expressing Emotions: Communicating Without Meltdowns
Being able to express emotions clearly reduces frustration and improves communication
Why it matters: Many challenging behaviours stem from an inability to express feelings.
How ABA therapy supports this in class:
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Scripting gives children the words to articulate emotions (e.g. “I feel sad because I lost.”)
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Differential reinforcement rewards appropriate emotional expression
3. Regulating Emotions: Staying Calm and Connected
Managing big emotions like anxiety or anger is essential for healthy relationships developed during social skills activities.
Why it matters: Emotional regulation supports self-control, helps children cope with disappointment, and prevents conflict escalation.
How ABA therapy supports regulation in classes:
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Self-monitoring checklists to track triggers and responses
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Relaxation strategies like deep breathing and mindfulness
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Red zone strategies for calming down in the moment
Emotional Understanding: The Gateway to Social Skills in Classes
Building Empathy Through Perspective-Taking
Children learn to see things from someone else’s point of view — a key component of success in social skills groups.
Why it matters: Empathy builds trust and helps children understand how their actions affect others.
How ABA therapy helps:
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Perspective-taking games
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Social stories where characters navigate relatable emotional situations
Strengthening Communication in Social Skills Classes
Understanding emotions improves both verbal and non-verbal communication — essential skills taught in our social skills interventions.
Why it matters: Facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language are deeply linked to emotional intelligence.
How ABA therapy helps:
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Behavioural Skills Training (BST) for role-play and feedback
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Video modelling to reinforce appropriate emotional cues
Resolving Conflict Through Emotional Awareness
Children who understand emotions can respond rather than react — a goal in every social skills groups.
Why it matters: Emotional awareness helps children de-escalate tensions and solve problems collaboratively.
How ABA therapy helps:
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Problem-solving frameworks taught through role play
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Reinforcement of cooperative, respectful behaviours
Practical ABA Therapy Applications in Our Social Skills Classes
Individualised Support Plans
At Freedom Therapy Services, we tailor every ABA and social skills class plan to the individual child — factoring in emotional development, learning style, and behavioural goals.
Parent Coaching
Our Parent Coaching programs help families reinforce emotional and social learning at home, boosting progress in social skills classes.
Consistency Is Key
Whether through sticker charts or social praise, consistent positive reinforcement is central to embedding emotional and social growth across social skills classes.
Final Thoughts: The Heart of Social Skills Classes Is Emotional Connection
Helping children understand and manage emotions isn’t just a bonus—it’s the foundation of effective ABA therapy and well-run social skills classes. From learning to take turns to handling disappointment, emotional awareness lays the groundwork for stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
If you’re a parent, educator, or support coordinator looking to enhance a child’s social skills, we’re here to help.
👉 Explore our ABA Therapy services
👉 Book a free consult
To learn more about the fundamentals of Applied Behaviour Analysis, check out this ABA overview from Autism Speaks.
