Márianna Csóti

This book is highly recommended for parents and teachers of 7-16 year-olds who would like to help the children improve their social understanding and awareness.

Csóti explains the benefits that learning communication and social skills have for all children, but especially those with special needs. Teaching kids to relate to other people and to behave appropriately in social settings can help them to make friends and improve their self-esteem. The book has several tasks to be worked on with a child, mostly on a one-to-one basis, although it would be possible to adapt some of the exercises for group work.

I particularly liked the opening set of questions, beginning with: ‘Are you shy?’ ‘Are you often ignored?’ ‘Do you feel you are not liked or admired by other people?’ If your child answers ‘yes’ to these questions then this book will be helpful for you both.

I believe Social Awareness Skills for Children cannot fail to give any child a boost of self-esteem, and among other things help a child make and keep friends, get along with other people, understand how to accept a compliment, and how to be tactful. Who could ask for more? It is a very interactive book and in this way it will also encourage parents to think about what they do, say and expect from their child.

A must for parents, teachers and other professionals working with children who need an extra bit of help with social skills.

© Jill Curtis 2002