Social Stories
Think of a time when you were walking into a new situation where you had no idea what to expect. Maybe it was a doctors appointment or a social event where you didn’t know anyone. That anxious feeling you had is what individuals with autism can experience in everyday situations. Social stories are tools to help ease that anxiety and stress.
Social stories are short narratives that describe a social situation or interaction. They break down what will happen, how others may feel or act, how the individual may feel, and how the individual can respond. These stories are written in a simple, step-by-step way, using pictures, so individuals can easily follow along and understand what’s coming.
how do social stories help?
Sets clear expectations
Whether it’s going to the dentist, starting a new class, going to get a haircut, or meeting new people, social stories help individuals understand what is going to happen. By providing clear, step-by-step explanations of what to expect in social situations, social stories reduce uncertainty and anxiety, helping individuals feel more prepared.
Teaches social skills
Individuals with autism sometimes struggle with reading social cues and understanding how to act in social situations and interactions. Social stories help individuals learn how to greet others, share, or take turns. They may teach about body language, tone of voice, or how to start and end a conversation. A social story may show what it looks like when some is happy or upset and explain how to respond appropriately. They provide clear examples or what to do in specific social situations.
manages transitions and changes
Many individuals with autism have a hard time with transitions and changes. Social stories can prepare individuals for changes. They can explain why a change is happening and help them understand it’s okay. A social story may help them walk through the steps of a new procedure at the dentist, a fire drill or explain why they need a flu shot.
developes emotional awareness & regulation
Sometimes, individuals with autism struggle with managing strong emotions. Social stories can teach individuals to recognize and understand their emotions and the emotions of others. Social stories can teach them how to cope with feelings like anger, frustration, or anxiety. They can be used to modify or replace challenging behaviors by explaining why the behavior is inappropriate and teaching a more positive alternative. A social story may teach tools to regulate their emotions in real life situations by showing how to take deep breaths or find a quiet space when they are feeling overwhelmed.
builds confidence
When an individual understands what’s expected of them, they can feel more confident about navigating social situations and interactions. Instead of feeling confused and overwhelmed, they can refer back to the social story and use it as a guide for what to do. This boosts their self-esteem and helps them interact with others more comfortably. As they experience more success, they may begin to increase their social interactions with their peers.
If you’re looking for a way to help your child feel more comfortable in the world around them, social stories are a great place to start. By breaking things down into simple steps, social stories offer guidance and reassurance, helping kids feel more in control. They are like little blueprints for social success, helping kids gain the skills they need to thrive in everyday interactions.
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