PEERS® School-Based Training is a proven social skills program designed for middle and high school students (ages 11-13) who have difficulty making and maintaining friendships. The program helps students develop important social skills to build confidence and improve their relationships with peers. The program teaches key skills, including how to start and maintain conversations, join group activities, make and keep friends, understand social cues like body language and tone of voice, and handle rejection or conflict. It also focuses on self-regulation, helping students manage their emotions in social situations. The program runs for 12 weeks with weekly sessions that last 1 hour. Each session introduces a new social skill, which students practice through role-playing and real-life scenarios. There is also a homework component, encouraging students to practice these skills at home with the support of their parents. This helps reinforce learning and build real-world confidence. To participate, students should be able to follow basic instructions, engage in simple conversations, and show some interest in socializing with others. The program works best for students who are motivated to improve their social skills and are ready to learn. By the end of the program, students typically see improved peer relationships, greater social confidence, and better emotional regulation. These skills help students feel more comfortable in social situations and build stronger, lasting friendships.

• Communication
• School Age
• Skill Building
• Social Skills

Roots & Wings Psychology

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The PEERS® School-Based Training program is not suitable for students who have severe behavioral challenges, such as frequent aggression, self-harm, or disruptive behavior that cannot be managed in a group setting. It also may not be appropriate for students with significant cognitive delays or very limited verbal communication, as these students may benefit more from individualized therapy before participating in a group-based program. Additionally, students who are not motivated to improve their social skills or who have little interest in interacting with peers may struggle to engage with the program.

1-hour weekly sessions for 12 weeks

January 8, 2026