SOCIAL SKILLS ACTIVITIES Friendship Activities Small Group Counseling – GR 5-8

Social Smarts is our research-based small group counseling curriculum designed for middle school students in grades 6–8. Our developmentally appropriate program helps pre-teens and early teens build and strengthen essential friendship and social skills in a supportive, structured environment.

Through 10 thoughtfully designed and interactive sessions, students explore the more complex and dynamic aspects of middle school peer relationships. They engage in guided discussions, role-play scenarios, and reflective activities focused on topics such as empathy, digital communication, peer pressure, and conflict resolution. With a focus on both self-awareness and social awareness, our curriculum empowers students to form positive peer connections, navigate challenges, and make responsible choices in real-life social settings.

Social Smarts supports students during a critical stage of development when peer relationships, identity, and emotional regulation all play an important role in social success. With relatable content and engaging activities, each session promotes growth in communication, respect, and confidence – whether in the classroom, on social media, or within their social circles. The sessions include:

TEN SESSIONS INCLUDE:

Session 1: Welcome & Introduction to the Group

Session 2: Building Connections & Starting Conversations

Session 3: Reading Social Cues & Body Language

Session 4: Communicating with Confidence

Session 5: Empathy & Perspective Taking

Session 6: Handling Peer Pressure & Making Smart Choices

Session 7: Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving

Session 8: Digital Friendships & Social Media Smarts

Session 9: Inclusion, Diversity & Respecting Differences

1Session 10: Termination and Review

Our Social Smarts Small Group Counseling Curriculum includes:

• Note to Counselors
• Objectives & Goals
• Group Session Overview
• ASCA Mindset and Behavior STANDARDS
• Binder Cover Page & Spine Options
• Teacher Nominations and Follow Up Forms
• Parent/Guardian Letter and Consent Form
• Group Planning Sheet
• Name Tags
• Group Member Reminders
• Group Attendance Record
• Student Pre & Post Outcome Measures
• Teacher Pre & Post Outcome Measures
• Additional Data Collection
• Confidentiality Sign
• Passes – Hall, Class, Counselor, Social Worker & Psychologist
• Student Desk Reminders
• Counselor Chats Handout
• Certificates

TEN SESSIONS INCLUDE:

Below are the specific details for each individual session which can be used in isolation or as a comprehensive social skills and friendship curriculum.

• Session 1: Welcome & Introduction to the Group – Students are introduced to the group, set expectations, and build connection through icebreakers and shared norms.
• Session 2: Building Connections & Starting Conversations – Students learn how to initiate conversations, show interest in others, and begin forming meaningful peer connections.
• Session 3: Reading Social Cues & Body Language – This session focuses on recognizing nonverbal signals to help students better understand and respond to social situations.
• Session 4: Communicating with Confidence – Students explore assertive communication and practice expressing themselves clearly and respectfully.
• Session 5: Empathy & Perspective-Taking – Students strengthen their ability to understand others’ feelings and viewpoints, supporting kindness and inclusion.
• Session 6: Handling Peer Pressure & Making Smart Choices – Students identify peer influences and learn strategies to make confident, values-based decisions.
• Session 7: Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving – Students practice resolving conflicts respectfully and learn simple, effective problem-solving steps.
• Session 8: Digital Friendships & Social Media Smarts – This session addresses respectful online behavior, managing group chats, and navigating digital drama.
• Session 9: Inclusion, Diversity & Respecting Differences – Students explore how to embrace differences and create inclusive, respectful peer relationships.
• Session 10: Termination & Review – Students reflect on their growth, celebrate progress, and discuss how to apply their skills moving forward.

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► Looking for more SEL workbook topics? We’ve got you covered!

• Behavior and Feelings Workbook
• Gossiping & Rumors Workbook for Teens 
• CBT Workbook – Thoughts Feelings Behaviors for Teenagers
• Self Esteem and Feelings Workbook
• Emotions & Self Care Workbook
• My Anger Management Workbook

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