What Are Social Stories?

Social Stories are short, supportive stories designed to help children understand social situations, routines, emotions, expectations and changes that they may find difficult or worrying.

They use simple language, visuals and clear explanations to help children:

• Understand what is happening
• Know what to expect
• Learn appropriate responses and behaviours
• Develop confidence and emotional understanding
• Reduce anxiety around unfamiliar situations

Social Stories can be particularly helpful for children with:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Speech and language difficulties
• SEMH needs
• Anxiety
• Social communication difficulties
• Emotional regulation needs

However, many children benefit from Social Stories at different times during their primary school journey.

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How We Use Social Stories at RAMJS

At Ribbleton Avenue Methodist Junior School, Social Stories are used across school to support children both in class and through our Heart Room and SEND provision.

They may be used to support:

• Starting a new class or school year
• Friendships and social situations
• Managing emotions and worries
• Playtimes and lunchtimes
• Transitions and changes to routine
• Behaviour expectations
• Managing conflict or disagreements
• Visiting new places
• Assemblies and school events
• Attendance difficulties or school anxiety
• Sensory needs
• Personal care and independence

Stories are personalised where needed and may include photographs, visuals or symbols to make them meaningful and accessible for individual children.

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Benefits of Social Stories

Social Stories can help children to:

• Feel calmer and more prepared
• Build confidence
• Improve emotional regulation
• Develop independence
• Understand routines and expectations
• Improve communication and social understanding
• Reduce anxiety and uncertainty

They are often most effective when read regularly and discussed with a trusted adult.

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Examples of Social Story Topics

Some examples of Social Stories we may use in school include:

• Coming into school in the morning
• What to do if I feel worried
• Using kind words
• Asking to join a game
• What happens at lunchtime
• How to stay safe online
• Understanding personal space
• Transitioning to high school
• Managing big feelings
• Visiting the dentist or doctor
• Fire drills and unexpected changes

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Working with Families

We work closely with parents and carers when creating or using Social Stories to ensure consistency between home and school.

Where appropriate, Social Stories may be shared with families to support children at home as well as in school.

If you feel your child may benefit from a Social Story, please speak to your child’s class teacher, Mrs Bleasdale (SENDCo), or our pastoral team.