- A social story describes a situation from the child's point of view.
- Mostly describe, with only one or two suggestions.
- Keep it short, positive and literal, with pictures.
- Read it together before the event, when calm.
What is a social story?
A short story that explains a situation, like a fire drill, a haircut or a new classroom, in a way the child can understand. Carol Gray developed Social Stories in the early 1990s and publishes guidance on writing them.1 Social narratives are among the evidence-based practices identified for autistic children.2
How do I write one?
- Pick one situation and find out what's hard about it.
- Write from the child's view, using "I" and words they use.
- Describe: where, when, what happens, who is there.
- Explain why, and how others might feel.
- Add one or two gentle suggestions: "I can try to..."
- Keep it positive and literal, and add pictures or photos.
What does an example look like?
Fire drills at school
Sometimes at school we have a fire drill. A loud bell rings.
The bell helps everyone practise leaving the building safely.
When I hear the bell, my teacher shows me where to walk. I can wear my headphones if the bell feels too loud.
We wait outside with my class. Then we go back inside. The fire drill is finished.
How do I use it?
Try
- Reading it a few times before the event
- Reading it when the child is calm
- Sending a copy home
Skip
- Reading it during a meltdown
- Using it as a list of rules
- Vague words like 'sometimes things change'
Free printable: social narrative templatePDF · 1 page · a simple story to prepare for a new or hard situation
Download Free printable: social narrative templateWhat can I write this week?
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