Social Stories

Social stories are a tried-and-true, effective method for helping children and young adults with autism understand the world around them. They are clear, straightforward explanations of how things work. They make the world more predictable and can ease anxiety for some kids.

Some examples might include a story to explain going to preschool, why people take baths and showers or how to behave in and around a pool.

The book below has many examples of social stories, but it also explains the rationale behind why they are written the way they are.  The book lays out ten criteria that should be included in any social story and even includes a disk of stories which can be modified for your little learner.

This book is not a new release so you should be able to get it from your local library or find a used copy at a discounted price online.  This one is worth reading because there will be countless times in which a social story will help your child.   If you know how to write them, you won’t need to wait for anyone else to write one for you.

Safety

Carol Gray, the creator of social stories and author of the book shown above, makes a special note to us (as the authors of our kids’ social stories). Their personal safety and emotional safety are the most important considerations we have when we write these stories.  Don’t use them as a chance to scold your child for poor choices in the past and don’t create scenarios in the stories that will instill fear or anxiety.  

Just check the book out from the library…it’s worth a read.