All Abouts Needs: Ava's Newest Module

What is Ava* by Social Cipher?

Ava is an evidence-based social-emotional learning (SEL) video game series and SEL curriculum designed specifically for neurodivergent youth ages 10-15. Players play the role of Ava, an autistic star mapper on a mission to explore distant galaxies. Ava gives players a safe place to learn and practice SEL skills that they can apply in the real world.

What is the Needs module about?

In the Needs module, players go on a mission to build a new town. Along the way, they’ll face challenges that allow them to explore SEL topics such as:

• How to identify and address needs
• How to manage conflicting needs
• How to advocate for themselves
• How to empathize with others
• How to cope under pressure

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How will the Needs module benefit neurodivergent youth?

Gaming has many benefits for neurodivergent youth. By merging SEL and gaming, players can learn and practice valuable SEL skills in a safe, fun environment that they can apply in the real world. Each Ava module is research-based and designed to support common IEP goals . 

Aside from keeping students engaged and promoting literacy through dialogue, the Needs module was designed to:

• Improve student behavior by teaching emotional regulation and coping strategies
• Strengthen problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Promote self-advocacy
• Foster self-awareness

How to use Ava

Whether you’re implementing Ava in a one-on-one, small group, or whole class setting, you can tailor Ava to fit your organization’s budget and needs. Private practices, therapy centers, and school districts use Ava as a:

• Part of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) model
• A tool to support students in working towards social and/or emotional IEP goal progress
• Cool-down activity for students to play during a meltdown or sensory overload
• Collaborative tool where students and facilitators work through the game and curriculum together
• Reward or early finisher activity
• Supplement to existing SEL curriculum

Schedule a chat with us to explore the different ways Ava can meet your organization’s needs.

^Ava is the former name of the Social Cipher game