Expressive Arts/Social Skills
Friendship Groups

Are fun and effective.
Jim Beatty, MA, Group Leader

Our goal is to help children learn alternatives to disruptive or alienating behavior, enjoy more positive peer relationships and feel better about themselves.

To achieve this end, emphasis will be placed on:    

Verbal and non-verbal communication
Developing the ability to cooperate
Encouraging participation in groups
Enhancing concentration and self-control
Improving problem-solving skills
Giving and receiving constructive criticism
Interacting and having fun with peers
Nurturing a sense of belonging
Theater games, role-playing, visual arts, board games, legos, music & movement activities, and group discussions are among the variety of activities which may be used to facilitate group cohesion and each member's individual growth. No child will be pressured to perform as there are plenty of ways for children to be a part of this group without being in the limelight.

Groups are forming now for boys, ages 5 to 9, who experience peer relationship difficulties at school or in other social settings which may also lead to behavioral problems and issues relating to low self-esteem.

Ongoing groups will meet on Wednesday afternoons at:
Eighth Street Studio
2525 Eighth Street, Berkeley, CA (at Dwight Way)

For information call Jim at (510) 527-5115

Jim Beatty, MA, Child/Life/Family Coach, has led Expressive Arts/Social Skills Friendship Groups at West Coast Children's Clinic and at the 8th Street Studio in Berkeley. He has been teaching creative movement/theatre, clowning and yoga for children since 1980. In 1991 he founded "Ha Ha This A-Way" Creative Movement/Theatre Arts, a children's after-school program and summer day camp. Jim holds a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Child, Adolescent and Family Counseling.