How to Create and Run a "Lunch Bunch"

Diana Cortese Author

How to create and run an effective lunch bunch or social skills group for kids in special education like those with autism and adhd.

The Power of Lunch Bunch Groups for Social Skills Development in Children

Social skills play a critical role in children’s development. Some students, often those diagnosed with autism or attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD), have challenges in establishing and maintaining friendships at school. One of the most effective ways to help children develop these skills in a natural, fun, setting is through a lunch bunch group. 

What Is a Lunch Bunch Group?

A lunch bunch group is a small, informal social skills group that meets during lunchtime that is typically facilitated by a professional, such as a speech therapist, special educator, or behaviorist (like a BCBA or RBT).

The group’s purpose is to create a supportive space where children, especially those with autism, ADD/ADHD, or other social challenges, can work on developing practical social skills. Through structured play, conversation, and interactive activities, students practice skills like conversational turn-taking, perspective-taking, self-regulation, and teamwork. This format allows students to enjoy and engage in social learning naturally while benefiting from the guidance of a skilled facilitator who can provide specific support and strategies tailored to each child’s needs.

Why Create a Lunch Bunch?

Many children, not just those in special education, find it difficult to navigate the complexities of social settings during the school day. When class time is focused solely on academics and recess can feel like the wild wild west, a lunch bunch can be a like life raft, helping keep the kids afloat socially during the day.

Steps to Set Up an Engaging Lunch Bunch Group

Step 1: Identify the Purpose and Goals

Determine what social skills you want the group to target. This could be anything from conversational turn-taking to problem-solving or self-regulation.You can use an social skills assessment to help you figure out which skills your students are most in need of learning.

Target Population: You can design your group for only  students with IEPs or that have autism, ADD/ADHD, or social skill challenges. Alternatively you can have it open to students in general education and have them serve as peer models. Knowing the needs of your group helps in planning activities that are both fun and meaningful.

Step 2: Create a Fun and Inclusive Atmosphere

Games and Activities: 

For younger learners table top  games that naturally lend themselves to playing together are perfect for a lunch bunch. Basic turn taking games like Don't Break the Ice or Greedy Granny are popular choices. If you have time, outside games are awesome for self-regulation. My favorites are What Time is Mr. Fox and Red Light Green Light.

For older kiddos, games like Double Ditto and Awkward Moment can be really fun as they spark lots of fun group discussions. You can also get the older kids moving with games like Emotion Charades.

Step 3: Set a Consistent Routine

Structure the Group: Establish a clear structure for each session (e.g., check-in, activity, wrap-up) to help students know what to expect. Predictability can ease anxiety and promote better participation.

Consistency is Key: Hold the group regularly, ideally at least once a week, to build a sense of routine and belonging. 

Step 4: Behavior Management Strategies

Offer Choice

Allowing students to choose activities or topics gives them a sense of ownership and autonomy, which can improve their engagement and motivation. This can be done by:

• Activity Selection: Present two or three activities and let the group decide which one they’d like to try or set up a few different stations around the room and let the kids choose which they like to do or rotate through.

• Seating Arrangements: Allow students to pick where they sit. For some, having control over personal space can make them feel more comfortable and willing to engage.

Positive Reinforcement

Incorporating positive reinforcement can increase desired behaviors and provide students with clear, motivating feedback. Here’s how to apply these techniques effectively in a lunch bunch group:

• Behavior-Specific Praise: Instead of general praise, use specific feedback that highlights the exact behavior being reinforced, such as, “You waited your turn so patiently—thank you!” This reinforces the specific skill and helps students understand which actions to repeat.

• Token Economy System: If you have students that need an extra incentive you can create a token system where students earn small tokens or stickers for demonstrating target behaviors, like sharing, following directions, or using kind words. Once they collect enough tokens, they can “trade” them for a reward, which could be anything from a special activity to choosing the group’s next game. Token systems provide immediate feedback, which can be particularly effective for students who need frequent reinforcement.

Adapt for Individual Needs 

Creating an inclusive lunch bunch group means making adaptations to support the diverse needs of all students. Here’s how to tailor activities and interactions to address specific challenges:

• Sensory Sensitivities: For children who may have sensory needs, consider activities that minimize sensory overload. Use quieter, low-stimulation games or provide sensory tools, such as fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones, to help students self-regulate in a busy environment.

• Visual Supports and Social Stories: Visual aids, like social stories, cue cards, or visual schedules, can help students understand group expectations and navigate activities more comfortably.

• Flexible Seating and Incorporating Movement:  For students with ADHD or high activity levels, allow flexible seating options, such as sitting on a wobble cushion, and make sure you engage them with interactive or hands-on activities that help them stay focused and feel included.

Increase School Community

If you're looking for a way to increase social growth and community building at your school, give a lunch bunch group a try. The inclusive nature of lunch bunch groups means that every student has a place, which strengthens the school community and helps promote an atmosphere where all students feel valued and included.

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