What is a social story for autism?

A social story is a short, personalized narrative that describes a social situation, expectation, or skill in simple, concrete terms. It helps autistic children understand and navigate interactions by making the unfamiliar predictable.

How do I write a social story for my child?

Start by identifying a specific situation your child finds challenging. Write from their perspective using simple sentences, include what happens, how others might feel, and what to do. Add pictures and keep it to 5-10 sentences.

Are social stories effective for all autistic children?

Social stories are most effective when tailored to the child's individual needs, interests, and developmental level. They work well for many children, but results vary. A BCBA can help customize them for your child.

Can social stories be used for adults with autism?

Yes, social stories can be adapted for older individuals by using more mature language and addressing adult situations like job interviews or public transportation. The core principles remain the same.

Does insurance cover social stories?

Social stories themselves are not a billable service, but they are often included as part of ABA therapy, which is commonly covered by insurance, including Medicaid. Check with your provider or contact Apply for ABA for guidance.

Where can I find free social story templates?

Many websites offer free templates, including Carol Gray's official site, Autism Speaks, and teacher resource platforms. You can also work with a BCBA to create custom stories through Apply for ABA's free matching service.

Social Stories for Autism: A Beginner's Guide

In short: Social stories are short, personalized narratives that describe social situations, expectations, and appropriate responses. They help autistic children understand and navigate everyday interactions by breaking down complex social cues into simple, concrete steps. You can create them at home or work with a BCBA to tailor them to your child's needs.

Social stories are short, descriptive narratives that explain a social situation, skill, or concept in a clear and structured way. Developed by Carol Gray in the early 1990s, they are designed to help autistic individuals understand and navigate social interactions that might otherwise be confusing or overwhelming. Each story is tailored to the individual's perspective, using simple language, concrete details, and often visual supports like pictures or icons.

For example, a social story about going to the dentist might describe the sights, sounds, and steps involved, such as sitting in the chair, opening your mouth, and the dentist counting teeth. The goal is to reduce anxiety by making the unknown predictable and to teach appropriate responses.

A warm close portrait of a parent and young child cheek to cheek outdoors

🔗 Related reading: Aetna ABA Therapy Ohio Pre-Authorization Guide · Local ABA Therapy

Addressing Core Challenges

Many autistic children struggle with understanding social cues, reading body language, and predicting what will happen next. Social stories address these challenges by:

Breaking down complex situations into manageable steps.
Providing a safe, non-judgmental way to learn about social expectations.
Using the child's own interests and experiences to increase engagement.
Reducing anxiety through predictability and repetition.

Evidence-Based Practice

Research supports the effectiveness of social stories for improving social skills, reducing problem behaviors, and increasing independence. They are considered an evidence-based practice by the National Autism Center and are widely used in schools, clinics, and homes.

Step-by-Step Process

Creating a social story is simple but requires thoughtfulness. Here's a basic framework:

Identify the target situation (e.g., sharing toys, riding the bus, visiting a relative).
Describe the situation from the child's perspective using first-person or third-person language (e.g., 'I will wait my turn').
Include descriptive sentences (what happens), perspective sentences (how others might feel), and directive sentences (what to do).
Use positive language and avoid negative phrasing like 'don't' or 'stop'.
Add visuals such as photos, drawings, or clip art to support understanding.
Keep it short-typically 5-10 sentences for younger children.

Example: A Social Story for Waiting in Line

"When I go to the store, I will stand in line with my mom. Other people will be in front of me and behind me. I will wait calmly. When it is my turn, I will say hello to the cashier. Then I can help put items on the counter. Waiting is hard sometimes, but I can do it."

A caregiver and a young child enjoying a healthy snack together at a small table in warm light

🔗 Related reading: Florida Early Steps ABA Therapy for 2-Year-Old: A Guide · Nearby ABA Therapy

When to Use Them

Social stories can be used for any situation that causes confusion or anxiety, such as:

Transitions (starting school, moving to a new home)
Social interactions (greetings, sharing, taking turns)
Self-care routines (brushing teeth, getting dressed)
Community outings (grocery store, library, playground)
Medical appointments (doctor, dentist, blood draw)

Tips for Success

Read the story regularly before the situation occurs, not just in the moment.
Involve the child in creating the story to increase ownership and understanding.
Use a calm, neutral tone when reading-avoid sounding anxious or overly enthusiastic.
Pair the story with role-playing or practice opportunities.
Update the story as the child's skills and needs change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the story too long or complex-keep it simple and focused.
Using negative language like 'don't run' instead of 'I will walk'.
Assuming one story fits all-each child is unique and needs personalized content.
Forgetting to include perspective-help the child understand how others might feel.
Using social stories as a punishment-they should be supportive, not corrective.

Close-up of a young child's hands and a parent's hands assembling a wooden train track on the floor

Social stories are often used as part of a broader ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy plan. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) can help design and implement social stories that target specific skills, such as conversation skills, emotional regulation, or school readiness. Many insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover ABA therapy, which may include social story development and coaching for parents.

If you're interested in exploring ABA therapy for your child, Apply for ABA offers a free matching service with vetted BCBA-led providers in your area. They can help you find a provider who understands your child's unique needs and can incorporate social stories into a comprehensive treatment plan.

Parents often wonder how long it takes for a social story to work, or if they can create their own. While results vary, many children show improvement after just a few readings. You can absolutely create your own social stories using templates available online, or work with a BCBA for more targeted support. Remember, consistency and repetition are key.

Social Stories for Autism: A Beginner's Guide