It is NOT a secret that I am truly passionate about social stories. This passion comes from years of seeing the benefits a well written and relatable social story can have on a child. I have found success in them with not only my students, but my OWN children. Social stories are my go-to when I need help teaching a behavior or skill. I have written social stories on many different topics and I whole heartily believe that they work when used correctly.
In my opinion, if a child can understand a 1 step directive, they can understand a social story. My two year old was struggling with the transition of going to school. I mean it had me in tears daily, along with him. That heart wrenching crying and screaming that makes you doubt everything you are doing in life!
After I had some very hard cries, I took to the advice I always give and use in the classroom to home. I created a social story for him about going to school. I used real pictures that his sweet teachers gathered for me and made it super easy and relatable to him. We read that dang story at least 1,000 times! I also provided a copy to his teachers to use in the classroom so he could find security from his social story in both settings. I used encouraging positive phrases like, “Mommy always comes back” and, “At school we have fun and learn new things.” I think our whole family has that social story memorized by now. I can say this with a lot of personal experience, social stories work!
Are you convinced yet to use social stories? I hope so, but if you need more proof in the pudding read below!
I have outlined 4 reasons why I use social stories. It is my hope that with these reasons I give you a glimpse into why I believe in the power of social stories.
These are my main reasons I use and believe in social stories. I have found many positive outcomes throughout the years with just a simple switch of teaching appropriate behaviors through social stories.
If you are looking for ways to use social stories you can check out my blog post HERE about using social stories to teach appropriate behaviors.
Grab a FREE social story below about playing nicely! Comment below about why you like to use social stories or if you have any questions. I will get back with you ASAP!