PEERS Social Skills Groups

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Albert Einstein Academy has staff members who are certified to facilitate PEERS social skills groups. The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is a world-renowned, evidence-based social skills intervention program for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and social skills challenges.

The PEERS program provides practical tools and strategies for common social interactions, including:

  • initiating and maintaining conversations

  • making and keeping friends

  • handling disagreements and resolving conflicts

  • navigating social challenges such as teasing and bullying

Learn more about why PEERS is such an effective social skills program below.

  • PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is grounded in decades of research from UCLA. Its evidence-based framework ensures that the methods and strategies taught are effective and backed by scientific studies. Numerous peer-reviewed articles and testimonials confirm its success in improving social outcomes for children, teens, and adults.

  • The PEERS curriculum provides clear, step-by-step instructions on social skills that are critical for making and keeping friends, navigating social challenges, and improving communication. Each session builds upon the last, offering a logical and easy-to-follow progression that ensures mastery of skills.

  • Unlike some programs that rely heavily on theoretical concepts, PEERS emphasizes actionable strategies. Participants practice specific behaviors in session, such as joining conversations, handling teasing, or resolving conflicts, and then apply them in their daily lives. This hands-on approach fosters real-world improvements.

  • One of the unique aspects of PEERS is its inclusion of parents or caregivers as social coaches. This ensures that participants receive consistent support and reinforcement of skills outside of the group, maximizing the likelihood of long-term success.

  • PEERS has been shown to improve social functioning for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other social challenges. Its strategies are universally applicable and accessible for anyone seeking to enhance their social abilities.

  • By breaking down complex social interactions into teachable and repeatable steps, PEERS empowers participants to gain confidence and competence. Mastery of these skills often leads to increased self-esteem, better relationships, and a higher quality of life.