During my time as a family adviser I often suggest to carers, the use of social stories with their children. Many carers say ‘What is a social story?’
Social stories was first created by an American, Carole Gray in 1991.
They are short descriptions of a particular situation, event or activity, which include specific information about what to expect in that situation and why.
It’s a child friendly way to give a child information.
I have used social stories to help children learn a new skills, to master a new situation or to stop an unwanted behaviour.
All social stories require specifically defined language and format which is at the child’s level of understanding and in picture forms.
This can be a quick basic drawing to computer printed out pictures or photographs of the child in the situation. Having pictures with the writing can be an easier way for the child to remember.
How to write a social story?
Write it as if you are the child. These stories can be written with a child’s input. If a child is involved in writing the story they are more willing to read it and put it in practise.
- First think about the subject – For this example we will base it on unwanted hitting
- Write a basic sentence – Sometimes I get angry and mad
- Explain what happens next – When I get mad, sometimes I hit other people.
- Validate their feelings – It’s ok to feel mad but it’s not ok to hit.
- Explain why – When I hit I hurt other people.
- Give them other ideas to change – Instead I can do deep breathes, I could tell someone, I could squeeze a fidget toy.
- Ending – This will help me feel calm and make people happy.
As you can see, a social story is short and to the point, this is to keep the child’s attention. These stories are to be read throughout the day at times when a child feels safe and calm.
A SENCO at school should be able to help you write a social story but there are many free ones on line you can adapt for your own situation.
An excellent you tube video to explain more on social stories can be found by watching this you tube video – Using Social Stories to explain situations
Other links for free social stories that can be adapted
Social Stories for Autism & Learning Difficulties – Free Social Work Tools and Resources: SocialWorkersToolbox.com
Social stories and comic strip conversations (autism.org.uk)
