Programs

PEERS for Preschoolers

A parent-assisted UCLA social skills program helping children aged 4 to 6 build early friendships and develop positive play habits.

Inquire About Preschool PEERS Enrollment
Two children and three adults playing with toy blocks and a board game at a table in a classroom.

Early Friendship and Play

Developing early friendships is a critical milestone for young children, but some children need extra help finding their footing. B.E.S.T. offers the UCLA PEERS for Preschoolers program. This evidence-based, 16-week parent-assisted social skills program is designed specifically for children between 4 and 6 years of age.

Three children and a woman sitting on a carpet playing with colorful wooden blocks indoors.
The curriculum targets children in pre-K or Kindergarten who struggle with social interaction. This includes children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, speech delays, or other socio-emotional challenges. Our goal is to set children up for social success before they enter grade school.

Interactive Play and Puppet Shows

PEERS for Preschoolers uses developmentally appropriate, highly engaging teaching methods. Children do not sit through dry lectures. Instead, we teach social rules through fun daily lessons, engaging role-play videos, puppet shows, and interactive games. Key behaviors targeted in our 16-week program include:

  • Communication Skills
    Listening, following directions, meeting new friends, and using greetings.
  • Cooperative Play
    Sharing, taking turns, asking for a turn, and good sportsmanship.
  • Self-Regulation
    Keeping cool, managing early frustration, and respecting body boundaries.
  • Friendship Habits
    Asking a friend to play, joining active games, and requesting to play something different.

Training Parents as Social Coaches

Parents are the primary facilitators of social interactions for young children. Therefore, parents attend 16 weekly sessions lasting 90 minutes each. In these parent-led sessions, our clinical instructors teach parents how to effectively coach their child in everyday settings.

Group of adults sitting in a circle in a bright room listening to a woman speaking and taking notes.
You will learn how to help your child practice skills during playdates, structure positive play experiences at home, and provide gentle, constructive feedback. Weekly homework assignments ensure that these vital social skills are transferred smoothly into daily family life.

Program Logistics

Suggested Ages:
Parents and caregivers of children aged 4 to 6 in Pre-K or Kindergarten.
Parent Requirement:
A parent or dedicated adult caregiver must attend and actively participate in every session.
Duration:
16 consecutive weekly sessions (90 minutes per session)