# Social story examples for common situations

> Short example stories for the doctor, haircuts, new school, waiting and more, and how to write your own.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/social-story-examples
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-29

**Short answer:** A social story is a short, positive story that explains a situation: what will happen, who will be there, and what might help. Keep it to 4 to 8 simple sentences, write from your child's point of view, use photos, and read it several times before the event. Examples below cover the doctor, haircuts, a new school and waiting.

**Key takeaways**
- Keep it **short**: 4 to 8 sentences.
- Write from your **child's point of view**.
- Use **photos** of the real place.
- Read it **several times** before the event.

## What do example stories look like?

**Going to the doctor:** "Today I am going to the doctor. I will wait in the waiting room. The doctor will look in my ears and listen to my heart. It might feel strange. I can hold my toy. Then we go home."

**Getting a haircut:** "Sometimes my hair gets long. I sit in a chair and wear a cape. The hairdresser uses scissors. I can count to 10. Then my hair is short and I get a sticker."

**Starting a new school:** "Soon I will go to a new school. My teacher is Ms. Lee. My classroom has a reading corner. I will learn new things and meet new friends. Mum or Dad picks me up at the end of the day."

**Waiting:** "Sometimes I have to wait. Waiting can feel hard. I can hold my waiting card. When the timer ends, it's my turn."

Social narratives are an evidence-based practice.[2]

## How do I write my own?

1. **Describe** the situation simply.[1]
2. **Use 'I' and 'sometimes'.**
3. **Add photos** of the real place and people.
4. **End on something positive.**
5. **Read it together** a few times.

Free printable: [Free printable: social narrative template](https://theautismkit.com/printables/social-narrative-template.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Pick one upcoming event
- [ ] Write a 5-sentence story
- [ ] Read it together three times

Read next: [How do I write a social story?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/how-to-write-a-social-story)

## Common questions

### How long should a social story be?

Short: 4 to 8 sentences for young children, with one idea per page.

### When should I read it?

A few times in the days before the event, at calm moments.

### Should it tell my child how to behave?

Mostly it should describe what happens. Keep any 'I can try' sentences gentle and few.

## Sources

1. Carol Gray Social Stories. https://carolgraysocialstories.com/
2. National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice: Research and resources (social narratives). https://ncaep.fpg.unc.edu/research-and-resources/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.