Overview
Unique Learning System® (ULS) integrates social skills instruction across all subjects and grade bands. Every lesson, as well as dedicated life skills lessons, includes opportunities for students to practice and strengthen their social interaction abilities in age-respectful and meaningful ways.
Teachers receive explicit guidance for facilitating one-on-one conversations, small group discussions, interviews, conflict resolution, and more—embedded within lesson plans and supported by supplemental instructional guides.
Social Interaction Opportunities
Students can engage in social interactions using the mode of communication most appropriate for them, including:
Pre-made and customizable communication boards within ULS and SymbolStix PRIME
Personal AAC devices
Verbal communication
This flexibility ensures students have multiple, accessible opportunities to practice social skills throughout their instruction.
Examples by Grade Band
Transition: Role-play activities such as resolving a conflict with a co-worker.
Preschool: Interactive play at dramatic play or gross motor centers.
Supplemental Resources for Social Skills
Beyond daily lessons, ULS provides robust support for social skills through supplemental resources:
n2y Library
Books covering topics such as Asking for Help, We Communicate in Many Ways, and Communication.
Core Materials
Home reports for family sharing
Weather reports for classroom discussions
Structured procedures for collaborative leisure activities
Transition Passport
Materials on differentiating friends vs. acquaintances
Accepting constructive criticism
Asking for help
eXtras!
Protocols for activities (reading, video calls, assemblies)
Pre-made communication boards
Teacher Resources
Active Participation Guidelines
Scripts to support engagement for non-speaking or limited-verbal students
Complementary Tools Supporting Social Skills
SymbolStix PRIME
Create customized communication boards and visual aids for classrooms, schools, and communities.
Positivity
Over 200 classroom and behavior management strategies
Includes social narratives, contingency/flow charts, video modeling, break cards, and incentive charts
L3 Skills
Interactive games to practice social skills like making choices, answering phone calls, and working in various environments
News2you
Engages learners through social activities such as sharing jokes, cooking recipes, reporting the weather, and more
Focused on social skills development for over 25 years
Accessibility
All social skills instruction and resources are available to students, families, and service providers on any internet-enabled device, ensuring broad access to support communication and social development.