Social skills are not the same as behavior. They represent components of behavior that students need to possess in the social scene called school. Caring for others, managing emotions, contributing to class discussions, or just being patient in the cafeteria line are all part of the training ground for adulthood. Therefore, many students may need your explicit instruction and persistence to practice and imbed social skills into their pattern of behavior.

If you are unsure about the importance of social skills in a student’s development and academic success, then just imagine a child who has none! What possible future would a student have without your investment to advance his or her social skills?

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