What are social stories?
Social stories are short, personalised stories that describe a situation, what usually happens and why, and how people might think or feel, to help autistic children understand social situations. They were developed by Carol Gray in 1991. Good social stories are written from the child's perspective, positive in tone and often illustrated with pictures.
What this means in practice
Many autistic children find unwritten social rules confusing. A social story makes the hidden information visible and gives the child time to process it before the event.
Writing a social story
- Choose one situation, such as a fire drill or a birthday party.
- Use simple, accurate sentences and the child's own name.
- Describe what happens, who is there and how people may feel.
- Include one or two gentle suggestions for what the child might do.
- Add pictures and read it regularly before the event.
Example sentences
'Sometimes the fire bell rings. It is loud. Everyone walks outside to stay safe. I can cover my ears and walk with my teacher.'
Common mistakes
- Writing rules or warnings rather than explanations.
- Using negative statements such as 'I will not scream'.
- Making the story too long for the child's attention.
- Reading it only once, or only after a problem has happened.
- Using pictures that do not match the real situation.
Practical next steps
- Identify a situation that causes confusion.
- Write a short story with pictures.
- Read it with the child before the situation.
- Review and update it as needed.
What to keep in mind
Social stories explain; they are not rules or punishments. Keep the tone reassuring.
Common follow-up questions
Are social stories only for autism?
They are mainly used for autistic children but can help any child facing a new situation.
How often should a social story be read?
Daily in the days before an event, then as needed.
Sources
Sources inform the explanation; examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.