Small group activities provide structured, yet flexible, opportunities for students to practice communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and other important social skills in a supportive environment. These 5 activities help students navigate real-world social interactions while fostering confidence and self-advocacy.

1. Desert Island Relationship Building

In this engaging activity, students work together to decide which items they would bring if they were stranded on a desert island. Through discussion and teamwork, they practice communication, decision-making, and perspective-taking skills. This activity encourages students to express their reasoning while considering others’ viewpoints, making it a great way to build relationship skills in a fun, low-pressure setting.

2. Developing Empathy through Perspective-Taking

Perspective-taking is one of the top skills educators and counselors say their students need help with. Understanding another person’s point of view can be challenging, even for adults, so this activity helps students learn how to actively listen and empathize with others, even if they don’t personally relate to their experiences. Through structured discussions and storytelling, students explore different perspectives and reflect on how life experiences shape emotions and actions.

3. Conflict Resolution Using Vulnerability and Curiosity

Conflicts can be overwhelming and uncomfortable, especially when everyone is passionate about their viewpoint. This lesson encourages students to approach conflict with curiosity rather than defensiveness. By asking open-ended questions and practicing active listening, students learn how to express their feelings, understand others’ perspectives, and work toward a resolution in a way that respects everyone involved.

4. Problem-Solving Role-Play

Role-playing real-life scenarios helps students develop problem-solving skills in a low-pressure environment. This lesson guides students through situations where they must identify challenges, brainstorm solutions, and consider different perspectives. By practicing problem-solving in a supportive space, students build confidence in advocating for themselves, seeking help when needed, and navigating real-world social interactions more effectively.

5. Building a Bully-Free Environment

Students with disabilities are two to three times more likely to be the target of bullying. Through guided discussion and role-play, this lesson helps students recognize different types of bullying and understand the impact of bullying. They will also learn how to advocate for themselves and others when bullying occurs and develop strategies to foster a safe space for everyone. 

Where can I find more SEL lesson plans?

Check out our SEL resources page for more lesson plans and activities For a complete curriculum designed with neurodiversity-affirming practices in mind, learn more about how to get Ava in your school or private practice.