DS1 has mild Aspergers and is in mainstream school, Y8, aged nearly 13. He has no solid friendships although seems to be well liked. He doesn't know how to make friends and is too terrified to invite people over. I used to contact other mothers directly to make arrangements but it is too embarrassing now that all the other kids just text each other. DS hasn't turned his phone on in months!
He is very sensitive about me raising the issue. But he does need a hand. I want to set him a task like asking his friends if they're watching X-factor, or have seen a particular film or football match. Or a harder task, like inviting someone over.
I have two reservations though. Firstly, that I don't know the kids' own social etiquette, and may suggest something that will embarrass him (what if X-factor is seen as really uncool, for example?). Secondly, that I may give him more of a hang-up about his social incompetence, and make matters worse.
Any thoughts on what would be best?