Social skills and confidence

For the child who has started saying "I'm dumb," or finds it hard to connect with other children.

Confidence comes from small wins, and we build them in on purpose.

Does this sound like your child?

  • Says "I'm dumb" or "it's too hard" before even trying.
  • Gives up after one or two wrong answers.
  • Compares themselves to classmates and rushes just to be done.
  • Has a hard time making or keeping friends, or reading what others mean.
  • Cries before tests, or doesn't want to go to school.

Who we work with every day

Children who have stopped believing they can do it. Children who melt down or shut down when something is hard. Children who struggle to read social cues or keep a friend, including many with autism or anxiety. Since 1989, helping them feel capable again is what we do all day.

See the group schedule 

How it starts

  1. Step 1: Book a free call

    Tell us what's going on at home and at school, and what you've already tried. In about 20 minutes, we'll learn as much as we can about your child and tell you honestly if we're a fit.

  2. Step 2: Visit the academy

    Your child has a first session with one of our teachers. Then we sit down with you, share what we saw, and recommend the plan that fits your child best.

  3. Step 3: See it working

    Your child gets started with clear goals made for them, and we keep you updated along the way.

What parents have seen

My freshman daughter had F's and D's and no interest in school when I met Mrs. Armenta and Mr. Smith. … She is a different student now, more expressive, more confident and she smiles often, too.

Grace, parent

My freshman daughter had F's and D's and no interest in school when I met Mrs. Armenta and Mr. Smith. I had already lost hope and was at the end of my rope. Now, two months into the program, my daughter has completed 2 subjects with good grades and a great attitude! All my expectations were surpassed by the results we are getting. She is a different student now, more expressive, more confident and she smiles often, too. Mr. Smith not only teaches academics, but he also builds up his students and teaches moral and social values. I am one happy parent!

Grace, parent

Small class sizes and leveled learning have enabled Sami to gain confidence in her learning abilities. In addition to a positive academic approach, Sami has grown socially and emotionally.

Susan T., parent

Our experience at Armenta Academy has been exceptional. The teachers are truly invested in my child's education and her growth as a learner. Adjustments are made as needed to meet the needs of the student. Small class sizes and leveled learning have enabled Sami to gain confidence in her learning abilities. In addition to a positive academic approach, Sami has grown socially and emotionally. The small class sizes and variation of students has taught Sami to strive for success and to have compassion for those that are doing the same regardless of any challenges they have. Sami looks forward to class and enjoys the extra curricular activities as well, especially the archeological artifacts and reflects on facts she has learned often. Thank you to ALA and the wonderful instructors.

Susan T., parent