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In this episode, Kim and Jake dive into one of life’s most essential (and often misunderstood) skills — getting along with others. From awkward small talk to decoding sarcasm, they unpack what social skills really mean and why they can be tricky for all kids, especially those who are neurodiverse.

They share practical tools like conversation scripts, repair phrases, and active listening cues — plus real stories about learning to connect authentically without pretending to be someone you’re not. They also explore masking (camouflaging behaviors to “fit in”) and how it affects confidence, self-esteem, and emotional health for kids with ADHD or autism.

Whether your child struggles with shyness, misreads social cues, or just needs a boost in social confidence, this episode offers empathy, laughter, and science-backed strategies you can use right away.

🧠 What You’ll Learn

• What social skills really are (beyond “being outgoing”)
• Why socializing can feel like learning a foreign language
• Conversation “scripts” and repair phrases that work
• How masking affects confidence and mental health
• Parenting strategies that build belonging and authenticity

❤️ Parent Takeaways

• Teach kids that authenticity > perfection
• Model social grace — apologize, clarify, and repair
• Create safe spaces for unmasking at home and school
• Praise effort and progress over performance

📚 References & Reading

Zakreski (2023); Attwood (2007); Laugeson & Frankel (2010); Koenig et al. (2009); White et al. (2010); Rao et al. (2008); Bandura (1977); Clark & Wells (1995); APA (2021); CDC (2024); Cage & Troxell-Whitman (2020); Hull et al. (2019).

💬 Connect with Us

• Visit themothersonpodcast.com
• Follow @themothersonpodcast
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