PEERS FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS
The PEERS® Program for Pre-Schoolers is UCLA’s highly acclaimed social skills training, adapted for children aged 4–6. It is one of the only evidence-based interventions for young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and has also been shown to benefit children with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other social challenges.
Using fun, interactive methods—puppet shows, role-play demonstrations, and group activities—children learn practical, real-world skills and practice them at home each week. The program builds confidence and lays the social foundations children need to thrive at school and in daily life.
Skills Covered
Communication Skills
- Asking and using names
- Greeting friends
- Asking friends to play
- Asking for and offering help
Play & Cooperation Skills
- Sharing and taking turns
- Joining ongoing games
- Transitioning smoothly between activities
- Being a good sport
Emotional Regulation
- Listening and following directions
- Keeping calm during play
- Using appropriate volume control
- Respecting personal space and boundaries
Participation Requirements
- Children aged 4–6 years
- Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or other social challenges
- Consistently speaking in phrases or sentences of four+ words
- No significant behavioural concerns (e.g., aggression)
- Funding options: NDIS packages and Medicare rebates may apply
Why It Matters
Early childhood is a crucial time to support social development and emotion regulation. For children with ASD, ADHD, or anxiety, making friends and joining play can be extra challenging. This program gives neurodiverse children the tools to communicate, cooperate, manage big feelings, and build confidence, setting the foundation for long-term success at school and in life.
Proven Results
PEERS® for pre-schoolers has been studied internationally for over a decade, with research consistently showing:
- Improvements in social communication and friendship skills
- Better emotional regulation during peer interactions
- Increased parent confidence in supporting children’s social development.
Participation Requirements
- Children aged 4–6 years
- Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or other social challenges
- Consistently speaking in phrases or sentences of four+ words
- No significant behavioural concerns (e.g., aggression)
- Funding options: NDIS packages and Medicare rebates may apply
Why It Matters
Early childhood is a crucial time to support social development and emotion regulation. For children with ASD, ADHD, or anxiety, making friends and joining play can be extra challenging. This program gives neurodiverse children the tools to communicate, cooperate, manage big feelings, and build confidence, setting the foundation for long-term success at school and in life.
Proven Results
PEERS® for pre-schoolers has been studied internationally for over a decade, with research consistently showing:
- Improvements in social communication and friendship skills
- Better emotional regulation during peer interactions
- Increased parent confidence in supporting children’s social development.
Program Structure
Duration
12 weeks
Format
Weekly 90-minute sessions
Activities
Puppet shows, role-plays, group games, and social practice
Parent Involvement
Parents attend parallel coaching sessions to learn strategies that support skill practice and reinforcement at home.
How Can I Apply to Participate?
We’d love to welcome pre-schoolers into the program.
Book an initial consultation to confirm whether PEERS® for Pre Schoolers is the right fit for you or the schooler in your care.