“There’s no hate here.”
Such an incredibly powerful statement. The teen who said it was around 13, and it stayed with me for years. In fact, the boy who said it is now a man who just graduated from college. It was how he felt when he was at Simply Social Kids. He was describing the difference between how he felt when he was with us and what he experienced outside our center.
I had such mixed emotions. On one hand, I was grateful that he felt safe with us, but on the other hand, I felt incredibly sad that he felt judgment elsewhere.
Teens need places where they can relax, enjoy being around other people, and feel accepted for who they are.
For some teens, finding that place is hard. They might want friends but feel unsure about joining a conversation. They might have people they talk to at school but no one they see outside of it. After enough uncomfortable experiences, they may stop wanting to try.
Sometimes, having a welcoming place to start can make trying feel possible again.
Friendship takes time together
At Simply Social Kids, our weekly teen groups give teens consistent opportunities to get to know one another through games, activities, and shared interests.
Our expert coaches help in the moment, whether a teen needs support joining an activity, keeping a conversation going, navigating a disagreement, or noticing an opportunity to connect.
We include a short lesson, but much of the learning happens while teens are spending time together. Returning each week gives them a chance to build on those connections and become more comfortable with familiar faces.
Come try a group, on us
If your teen could use support with friendships, I invite you to schedule a phone intake so we can talk about their interests, needs, and which group might be a good fit.
Their first trial session is free. They can meet the coaches, participate in the activities, and get a feel for the group before you decide about enrolling.
| 
