Social Stories
Social Stories to support transitions
A lot of children strive on routine and structure. However, routine is not always possible. Sometimes a transition or an unexpected event, no matter how big or small, occurs and changes a routine.
In these instances, a social story for transitions can be crafted to guide children through the process of adjusting to new routines or settings, using simple language and illustrations to depict the change in a positive light.
A transitions social story provides children with a structured narrative that outlines what to expect and how to behave.
Incorporating a transition social story about common upcoming transitions and unexpected events can help prepare children and reduce anxiety in changes in their regular routine. They make it easy for the child to visualise what will happen and provide suggestions on how to respond.
The end of the school year and coming back to school are anticipated changes. This allows for the creation of scenario specific social stories to help prepare children who benefit from advanced notice.
We have created two social stories that your child may benefit from:
1. End of the school year – this social story helps children understand the concept of school ending and the impending holidays. This social story should be shared at the end of term/start of the school holidays. The story should be read with the child regularly (even daily) when the child is calm and can engage with it.
2. Back to school – this social story helps children prepare for coming back to school. This social story should be shared towards the end of the school holidays in preparation for the return in September. Again, this should be shared regularly when the child is calm and able to engage with it.
