One of the most important elements of LEAP is the implementation of social skills training. Proper social skills are necessary to gain employment, make friends, and develop relationships. LEAP employs a social skills curriculum that is taught in the classroom as well as on all of the work sites. LEAP utilizes role-play scenarios and techniques to teach situational social skills such as proper body language, greetings, eye contact, shaking hands, using proper manners and expressing feelings.
- Social skills are modeled by staff and practiced by participants in classrooms, hallways, and on work sites daily
- Staff provides direct feedback in social situations and offers appropriate constructive criticism
- Participants adhere to a strict, no-bullying policy and learn appropriate conflict resolution through a staff led mediation process
- Participant interactions are monitored regularly, and participants are encouraged to communicate and socialize with each other
- LEAP provides a bowling club after school and also plans community outings and field trips to promote socialization
- Participants are encouraged to plan outings and get-togethers outside of the LEAP day
- Staff help facilitate the process of making friends and developing personal relationships
