We all remember those awkward high school and even college years where the simple act of engaging with others brought out fears, worries, and stress. And that was before screens and texting, which have now made it even easier for kids to avoid interpersonal communication. TL;DR: The social skill struggle is real.
That's exactly what James Treadway is tackling with his online tutoring company, Growth Wise, during an 8-week virtual Social Skills for Life class. It's something deeply personal to Treadway, who says he "struggled enormously with social anxiety as a kid, all the way into my mid-30s." Treadway found a way to flip his social struggles on his head, and use it for the greater good. "Once I finally solved that for myself, I knew nothing would fulfill me more than helping other people who struggle with it, especially kids," he says.
If you have an older child at home or who recently graduated who is dealing with similar struggles, they don't need to do it alone. Social Skills for Life covers four topics for a well-rounded approach. This includes what to say in conversation without worrying what others will think and how to make others feel seen, breaking free from anxiety, handling rejection and failure, and discovering what Treadway calls "core gifts" — strengths that make them unique and using it to become successful personally and professionally.
With so many first-hand success stories from teens ranging in age from 14 to 19 and beyond, Treadway says all students "come out of the class noticeably more outgoing, more free from anxiety, and enjoying...having more conversations and interactions." They know how to speak to speak and connect to people, which helps to boost their confidence. "Navigating your nervous system out of anxiety ensures the better part of you shows up to every part of your life," says Treadway, which includes workplace interactions, friends, family, and partners.
Ready to help your teen grow their confidence and release themselves of social anxiety? Check out the Social Skills for Life class here along with a Sunday night webinar 4 Secrets to Social Confidence. If you want to learn more, email [email protected].
