What are social stories?
Social stories were created by Carol Gray in 1991 to help autistic individuals better understand the nuances of interpersonal communication.
They describe a situation, event, or activity. They can also be called social scripts, social narratives, or story-based interventions.
A social story can be used for a wide range of subjects, from going to the dentist or starting school to explaining difficult topics such as death or divorce. They help by setting out what to expect, alongside the expected behaviours and responses.
Who are social stories useful for?
Social stories can be used by parents, carers, and schools. They are a practical tool for helping autistic children and adults prepare for situations and understand social interactions.
What are the benefits of using social stories?
Social stories present information in a visual, structured sequence. This makes them particularly helpful for preparing a child or adult for what comes next.
They are most effective when tailored to the individual and can support understanding of both everyday routines and more complex social situations.
When can they be used?
A social story can be created for almost any social situation. For example, a child going to the dentist can be shown a social story that visually explains each step of the process in a way that feels easy to follow and predictable.
How do I create a social story?
Social stories are usually written in the first person, for example, “When I go to the dentist…” – and should include clip art or photographs to support the text.
A good social story focuses on one event or subject at a time to ensure clarity and understanding.
Where can I find examples of social stories?
There are many examples freely available online. Editable versions are also widely shared. For teachers and school staff, resources such as Twinkl offer a large range of downloadable social stories covering a variety of situations.
A simple Google search brings up a wide range of social stories covering a variety of situations. Editable versions are also available. For school based staff, Twinkl has a large range of free resources available including social stories.
www.ripplevaleschool.co.uk
