Introduction to Social Thinking

What is Social Thinking?

Social thinking is what we do when we interact with people: we think about them. And how we think affects how we behave, which in turn affects how others respond to us, which in turn affects our own emotions.

Whether we are with friends, sending an email, in a classroom or at the grocery store, we consider the thoughts, intentions and emotions of those around us. In fact, many people can score high on IQ and standardized tests and yet do not intuitively process social information and therefore do not find much reward in "being social."

The Responsive Classroom approach supports our school’s mission and core principles by offering a set of teaching practices that promote academic success and help to build strong, positive relationships among children, teachers and families. Schools across the country use Responsive Classroom, and report these outcomes:

1. Improved social skills
2. Increased academic engagement
3. Positive classroom climate
4. Greater learner investment and independence
5. Fewer disruptive behaviors

There are many benefits of reading aloud with children

1. Children's self esteem grows as they experience the security of having a parent or other caring person read aloud with them.

2. Children experience increased communication with parents and other family members.

3. Children are introduced to new concepts and ideas in a fun, age appropriate way.

4. Children build listening skills, vocabulary, memory, and language skills.

5. Children develop imagination and creativity.

6. Children learn information about the world around them.

7. Children develop individual interests in special subjects like dinosaurs, cats, or cars.

8. Children learn positive behavior patterns and social values.

9. Children learn positive attitudes towards themselves and others.

10. CHILDREN LEARN THE JOY OF READING!

Reading, Literacy and Your Child