Articles

Social stories are a valuable tool developed by Carol Gray that helps individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities navigate everyday social situations with greater confidence and understanding. These stories serve as autism support tools for communication, creating a bridge between parents, professionals and individuals to ensure clear and meaningful interaction.

At their core, social stories aim to prepare participants for upcoming events by outlining what to expect, practice how they are going to behave and rehearse how they can manage emotions in various scenarios. Whether it’s a doctor’s visit or a birthday party, social skills stories for kids with autism provide structure and predictability, which reduces anxiety and promotes positive experiences.

Step-by-step guide to creating social stories for developmental needs

Using social stories in special education allows educators and caregivers to break down social situations into manageable steps. Each story acts as both a visual and emotional guide. A well-written social story will typically:

1. Describe the situation or event – offering context and setting the scene.
2. Explain expected behaviours – clarifying what to do in the moment.
3. Address emotional regulation – providing coping strategies for feelings like anxiety or frustration.
4. Show outcomes – reinforcing positive behaviours and their results.

For those looking to begin, it's helpful to first learn how to write a social story that is tailored to the individual's needs, interests and comprehension level.

Social story examples for daily routines

"Going to the doctor"

• I sit in the waiting room until my name is called.
• The doctor will check my height, weight and heart rate/blood pressure.
• If I feel nervous, I can tell the doctor or a trusted adult.
• After the check-up, I will leave and go home feeling proud!

"Going to a birthday party"

• I will arrive and say "hello" to the birthday person.
• I will put my gift in the gift area.
• There will be music and games I can join if I want.
• If I don’t want to play, I can watch.
• If I feel uncomfortable, I can take a break.
• At the end, I will say "goodbye" and thank them.

These social stories for developmental disabilities are adaptable for any situation and help make social experiences more predictable.

Visual social stories for nonverbal Autism

Social stories are especially powerful for nonverbal individuals. Visual social stories for nonverbal autism rely on images, routines and personal interests to explain social contexts clearly. These visual supports offer individuals with limited verbal skills a reliable way to understand and anticipate what’s coming next.

A highly effective method involves creating social stories with pictures by combining real-life photos with PECS social stories. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) allows individuals to express themselves using images, which can be embedded directly into the story to enhance understanding and interaction.

You can also integrate Boardmaker social story examples, using their widely recognised picture symbols. For example, a social story about visiting a playground might include Boardmaker icons for "wait," "slide," "friend," or "take turns" alongside actual photos of the child’s local playground. These visuals make the experience relatable and accessible.

Why social stories are important

For individuals with autism and other developmental needs, autism visual supports offer predictability, reduce stress and promote independence. They help users learn appropriate responses, manage feelings and build confidence.

Caregivers and educators also benefit. Social stories serve as consistent, proactive tools to address concerns, teach social norms and encourage positive behaviours. They make it easier to introduce change, reinforce structure and adapt materials to meet each person’s needs.

The benefits for all involved

The outcomes of using social stories are significant. Individuals gain clarity, emotional security, and improved communication. Caregivers gain a structured, empathetic method to support and connect. When implemented well, social stories for developmental disabilities become part of a supportive environment that nurtures growth and inclusion.

Ultimately, whether you’re creating social stories with pictures or using tools like Boardmaker or PECS social stories, these resources represent a compassionate approach to helping individuals with autism better understand their world. 

They’re not just learning aids - they’re tools of empowerment, understanding and genuine connection.

Chat with Incluso today to learn how we can assist you or a loved one with support.