How to Create Your Own Social Story
If you’ve ever found yourself repeating the same instructions, trying to explain an emotional response, or helping your child prepare for something new—then you already know why social stories matter. We explored this idea in depth in Issue 5 of BookWord Magazine, where we shared real-world examples, expert insights, and some of our favourite resources for using stories to support emotional and social learning.
Now, this blog post is your hands-on companion. It’s designed to help you take the next step: learn how to create your own social story for use at home or in the classroom.
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
You don’t need to be a writer or illustrator. Nor do you need fancy tools. What you do need is a single idea, a calm voice, and a simple way to tell the story—whether through drawings, photos, or short sentences.
What Are Social Stories For?
Social stories are helpful for:
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Preparing for new experiences (e.g. going to the dentist, starting a new class)
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Teaching routines (e.g. packing your bag, lining up at the door)
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Understanding social expectations (e.g. taking turns, using a quiet voice inside)
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Regulating emotions (e.g. what to do when you feel angry or sad)
Moreoever, they can be used with all children—not just those who are neurodivergent—and are especially helpful for visual learners or those who need repetition to feel confident.
Key Tips for Writing a Social Story
Here’s how to make your story more effective:
1. Stick to one topic only
Trying to cover everything at once. If the story is about what to do when you’re angry, don’t also explain how to say sorry or talk about calming corners. Save those for another story.
2. Use calm, clear language
Keep your sentences short. Use the child’s name or “I” statements to make it relatable.
3. Show what to do, not just what not to do
Avoid phrasing like “Don’t hit,” instead, use positive examples: “When I feel angry, I can take a deep breath.”
4. Keep it short
Your story doesn’t need more than 4 to 6 steps. Think of it like a picture book with a purpose.
How to Create Your Own Social Story
There are lots of easy ways to make one. Here are some simple approaches:
1. Use drawings
Stick figures or basic illustrations are great. Draw one per sentence and use a page or tile for each.
2. Take photos
Planning a story like How I Get Ready for School? Take photos of each step and add captions such as:
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I put on my shoes.
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I pack my bag.
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I walk into the classroom and say good morning.
3. Try Digital Tools
Sites like Canva make it easy to combine text and images. You can search for free illustrations or upload your own photos.
4. Make a small booklet
Fold printer paper or use a notebook. Keep each page to one sentence and one image and focus on a single theme.
Example: A Social Story in Six Tiles
We created a simple six-panel example titled Kindness Is Like Sharing Sunshine plus a few different versions of What to do When You Feel Angry. You can create your own version on any topic—whether it’s about asking for help, dealing with big feelings, or what to do at the park.
Each tile includes:
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A clear idea or moment
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A suggested action for the child
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The effect on others
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An encouraging or kind message
Don’t worry about artistic skills—stick figures or clip art work just fine!
Ideas for Your First Story
Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration:
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Walking into the classroom
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What to do when someone makes you angry
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Asking for help
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Playing with others at the park
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Visiting the doctor
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Saying goodbye to a parent in the morning
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Taking turns at home or school
Final Thoughts
Remember, you don’t need to be an author or an artist. Learning how to create your own social story is about helping a child feel more confident, prepared, and understood. Whether you use drawings, a digital tool, or a notebook—the heart of the story is what truly matters.
Want more inspiration?
You’ll find additional insights, featured books, and interviews around social stories and emotional learning in Issue 5 of BookWord Magazine.
👉 Click here to buy the magazine (digital or physical copy)
Start small. Stay focused. One story can make a world of difference.
