The 5 Essential Elements of an Incredibly Effective Social Story

March 27, 2017
At Home Therapy, For Parents, Speech Therapy

You’ve probably heard the term “social story” used before, but do you know what it is or why it is used? Look no further, we have the answers!

What are Social Stories?

Social stories are narratives to increase appropriate social behaviors. These stories are visual, different for each situation, and give very specific step-by-step information for that situation. Social stories are written in the student’s voice from their perspective. These stories are typically used for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, but can help any child!

What are the Different Parts of a Social Story?

1. Descriptive:

– This part answers the wh- questions relevant to the situation. Where it is, who it’s occurring with, and why it’s happening.

2. Perspective:

– This part includes opinions, feelings, ideas related to the situation.

3. Directive:

– This part includes a range of responses for a particular situation. It’s important that they have a positive focus and refrain from using “I have to” or “I must” in them.

4. Affirmative:

– This part includes statements that enhance the importance of the message to reassure the person.

5. Co-operative:

– This part includes statements to provide meaning to a situation

Put it together and give Me an Example:

Sometimes, there are thunderstorms. I don’t like thunderstorms. When there is a thunderstorm I can take deep breaths, listen to music, or play on my iPad. Mom and Dad can snuggle with me if I am still scared. Thunder can be very loud and that is okay.

Is there an App for This?

There are many apps used to create social stories! Some of my favorites include:
-I Get It., Inc. (has apps for different social stories for events and holidays, but you can also create your own!)
-Social Stories Creator and Library by TouchAutism
-Stories about Me

Elizabeth Miller

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My 9 year old just completed about 9 months of weekly speech sessions (due to his stuttering) with Matt Hagge at LLA and we are thrilled with the experience and results. What I thought might be a negative (what kid really wants to go to speech class?) was made very positive by Matt, and my son never hesitated or complained when we talked about class. He really enjoyed it and really took what Matt taught him to heart. His speech has been greatly improved and we definitely recommend LLA. Thank you so much!

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I cannot say enough good things about LLA Therapy. My daughter was a client of Teal Simmons’ for approximately 2 years and was just released from speech therapy! She was diagnosed with Apraxia in 2015 and worked with Teal twice a week. Through Teal’s application of PROMPT therapy, my daughter had age-appropriate speech after one year. All of the staff we interacted with at LLA were absolutely wonderful. They really care about what they do and making sure your child achieves their goals.

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We are so grateful for our Speech Therapist Ms.Teal. We have seen a great improvement with our sons confidence and communication abilities since we have started "Prompt" therapy. What we love the most about LLA and Ms. Teal is that Kohl feels comfortable and relaxed which has played a critical role in his progress. Thank you Ms. Teal for all you have done.

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We had a great experience with Matt Hagge at LLA! Our Middle School age son was becoming very conscious of his voice, which is nasal due to a cleft palate. Matt helped him to better form his sounds and project his voice in a way that makes the unavoidable nasality less noticeable.Our son is more confident and outgoing & even took on a speaking role in the church play. Matt has the perfect personality to relate with our son, and we would recommend him to anyone needing speech therapy services!

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