How to Write a Social Story for Transition Back-to-School

Things You’ll Need:
Simple photos or pictures
3 Ring binder

Social stories are simple stories that teach autistic children appropriate behavior and social skills. A social story describes a situation an individual has difficulty with and tells what to expect from other people in that situation and what is expected from the individual. Write social stories for your autistic child to address difficult behaviors in certain situations.

To begin your social story, try and get a picture of the school, teacher and classroom setting and make a social story about school. The more information your child has about his new teacher, the easier the transition will be. In the context of writing your child’s social story, let him/her know that their thoughts are perfectly normal. If your child is unable to express emotions, simply tell him/her that whatever they are thinking and feeling is valid and that you are there to help.

Here are a few suggestions to add to your child’s social story:
Vacation is so much fun. I really enjoy going to _________________.
School begins on ________________.
I am going into __________ grade.
My teacher knows all about me and I can’t wait to meet her. Her name is ________________.
I might know some friends in my class but I will also make new friends.
It’s good to go to school because I get to learn and play/hang out with my friends.

Keep the story in a three ring binder, so you will always have it. Also, you can make social stories for any situation that arises and add it to your binder.