Let's Get Social Group for Youth Ages 11–13

YMCA of the Jersey Shore Counseling & Social Services Launches "Let's Get Social" Group for Youth Ages 11–13

The YMCA of the Jersey Shore Counseling & Social Services is offering Let's Get Social, a five-week Social Skills & Self-Esteem Group designed to help youth ages 11–13 build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and develop healthy friendships in a safe, supportive environment.

Growing up comes with challenges, and no child should have to navigate them alone. Led by an experienced YMCA Counseling & Social Services behavioral health counselor, this small-group program gives participants practical tools to improve social interactions while building self-esteem and emotional resilience.

Throughout the program, participants will learn how to:

• Build confidence and self-esteem
• Start and maintain conversations
• Handle peer pressure and conflict
• Communicate clearly and assertively
• Manage stress and big emotions
• Develop healthier friendships

The group will meet Mondays from July 27 through August 24, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at YMCA Camp Zehnder, 3911 Herbertsville Road, Wall, NJ.

Registration is now open. For more information or to register, contact Julia Cunningham at jcunningham@ymcanj.org or 862-236-4846.

The YMCA of the Jersey Shore Counseling & Social Services provides compassionate, accessible mental health services for children, teens, adults, and families throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex counties.