Building Friendship Skills: How Our Early Intervention Programs Help Children Connect

As Valentine’s Day approaches, many of us reflect on the importance of relationships and connections in our lives. The Trudeau Center understands that the foundation for meaningful relationships begins in early childhood. For over 60 years, Trudeau’s Early Intervention (EI) program has been helping children develop crucial social skills that serve as building blocks for lasting friendships. 

The ability to form and maintain friendships is a vital life skill that develops gradually through early childhood. For children experiencing developmental delays or disabilities, these skills may require additional support and guidance to flourish. Trudeau’s Early Intervention program, serving families throughout Rhode Island, provides specialized assistance to help children ages 0-3 develop the social-emotional capabilities essential for forming friendships. 

“Early childhood is a critical period for developing social skills,” said Jacqueline Ferreira, Director of Early Intervention at the Trudeau Center. “When we support children in learning how to connect with others during these formative years, we’re setting them up for success in building meaningful relationships throughout their lives.” 

Trudeau’s approach to fostering friendship skills begins with understanding each child’s unique needs and challenges. Through personalized interventions, our team of specialists works closely with families to develop strategies that support social development in natural, everyday settings. This might include teaching fundamental skills like making eye contact, sharing toys, taking turns, and recognizing emotions in others. 

One of the most effective aspects of Trudeau’s Early Intervention program is its emphasis on peer interaction. Opportunities are created for children to practice their emerging social skills in supported environments, whether during playgroups, therapeutic sessions, or family activities. These structured interactions help children learn to navigate social situations while building confidence in their abilities to connect with others. 

Parents play a crucial role in this process as well, and Trudeau’s EI providers embrace a coaching model that empowers families to support their child’s social development. These providers work alongside parents and caregivers, providing guidance and strategies they can implement during daily routines and activities. This approach ensures that learning continues between sessions and helps children generalize their skills across different settings and relationships. 

“The transformation we see in children as they develop these foundational friendship skills is remarkable,” explained Ferreira. “Something as simple as learning to wave hello or share a favorite toy can open up a whole new world of social connections for a child.” 

Trudeau’s comprehensive approach also addresses the various components that contribute to successful friendships, including communication skills, emotional regulation, and social understanding. Through play-based interventions, Trudeau helps children learn to express their feelings, respond to others’ emotions, and engage in cooperative play – all essential elements of early friendships. 

As we celebrate the season of love and friendship this February, we’re reminded of the importance of these early social connections in shaping a child’s future. The friendships formed in early childhood can have lasting impacts on social development, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Through Trudeau’s Early Intervention program, we’re committed to ensuring that every child has the support they need to develop these crucial skills and experience the joy of meaningful friendships. 

The Trudeau Center’s Early Intervention program serves families in numerous Rhode Island communities, including Warwick, Cranston, East Greenwich, and surrounding areas. If you have concerns about your child’s social development, or if you would like to learn more about our Early Intervention services, we encourage you to reach out to our team.