AUTISM RESOURCES
How to use Social Stories
Social stories model appropriate social interaction by describing a situation with
relevant social cues, other's perspectives, and a suggested appropriate
response. They most often focus on the nuances of interpersonal communication in
an effort to help individuals learn how to respond in an effective and appropriate
manner. Social stories can also help prepare youth for new and unfamiliar
situations.
It is recommended that personalized pictures be added in order to best prepare the
youth for the situation that they might encounter because they would see a familiar
face or place. Parents or other family members might read these with the child
multiple times before the event as preparation of what is to come. One mother said,
"We read my son's "Going to school" social story every night for two months before
his first day of preschool, so that he could see his classroom, teachers and routine."
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