Small Group Sessions

Small Group Sessions are a working format in a small group of peers at the H&B Neurolife International Rehabilitation Center in Shangrao. This is a bridge from the individual (1:1) format to full group work. At stage R (Rise Up) of the GROW program, small groups are the key format: the child begins working without the parent, independence and an understanding of session rules form, and adaptation to a rhythm close to that of kindergarten takes place.

Small groups solve an important problem — the gradual transition: for many children with ASD, an abrupt jump from 1:1 to a full group is too stressful. In a small group of several children, the child receives a real social context but in controlled conditions, where the specialist can focus attention on each child as needed. This is a safe environment for training new social skills and preparing for full group work at stage O (Open Social) with a focus on Super Skills. The method is combined with PCI, developmental games, and Orff music therapy.

Advantages of the format as delivered at the centre: gradualness — a small group is less stressful than a full one; a real social context in controlled conditions; preparation for kindergarten and school — the format resembles real learning situations; flexible combination with the individual format when needed; a safe environment for training new social skills.

What matters for the parent

The child's readiness for work in a small group is determined by the specialist — it marks the transition of an important qualitative stage. At stage G of the GROW program children still work in a 'parent + child' format; the move to small groups happens at stage R as foundational skills form. As progress is made, the child transitions to fully group-based work (stage O) — Super Skills becomes the core of the programme.