Putting Things Away Social Stories for Neurodiverse Kids: A Comprehensive Guide to Foster Independence and Organization

For children on the neurodiverse spectrum, everyday tasks like putting things away can pose significant challenges. Social stories, a powerful tool in special education, can effectively support these children by providing visual and narrative guidance on appropriate behaviors.

Benefits of Using Social Stories for Putting Things Away

• Visual Aids: Visuals, such as pictures and diagrams, enhance understanding and make the process more accessible.
• Cognitive Support: Stories break down complex tasks into smaller steps, making them easier to process and follow.
• Social Skills: They teach appropriate social behaviors and expectations in different settings.
• Self-Regulation: Stories can help children develop self-monitoring skills and learn to manage their impulses.

Creating Effective Putting Things Away Social Stories

When crafting social stories, consider the child's individual needs and abilities.

Cleaning Up: Putting Things Away (Social Stories for Neurodiverse Kids)

by Randi-Lee Bowslaugh

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	21 pages

FREE

1. Assess the Child's Needs

• Observe the child's current skills and challenges with putting things away.
• Determine the specific areas where they need support, such as identifying where things belong or initiating the task.

2. Choose a Clear and Simple Language

• Use short sentences and simple vocabulary.
• Avoid jargon or technical terms that the child may not understand.

3. Use Visual Supports

• Incorporate pictures or diagrams representing different steps in the process.
• Use arrows, lines, or color-coding to illustrate the flow of the story.

4. Provide Positive Reinforcement

• Highlight the child's strengths and efforts in putting things away.
• Use positive language and specific praise to encourage desired behaviors.

5. Practice Regularly

• Read the story aloud to the child multiple times.
• Engage in role-playing or hands-on activities to practice putting things away.

Sample Social Story for Putting Toys Away

Title: Where Do My Toys Go? A Social Story About Putting Toys Away

Text:

I like to play with my toys. I have lots of fun building towers, racing cars, and playing dress-up. But when I'm finished playing, it's important to put my toys away. When toys are put away, they are easy to find and don't get lost. It also helps to keep my play area clean and tidy.

Here are the steps I can follow to put my toys away:

1. Find the right toy box. I look around for the toy box that matches the type of toy I'm putting away. For example, I put blocks in the block box and cars in the car box.
2. Put the toy in the box. I carefully place the toy inside the box. I make sure it fits and isn't squished or broken.
3. I'm done! I put all my toys away neatly. Now I can enjoy a clean and tidy play area.

Putting things away is a good habit. It helps me to be organized and keep my space clean. When I put my toys away, I feel proud of myself for ng something good. I can also play with my toys again later because I know where to find them.

Social stories are a valuable tool for supporting neurodiverse children in learning appropriate behaviors for putting things away. By providing visual and narrative guidance, these stories can foster independence, organization, and self-regulation skills. By following the principles outlined in this guide, educators and parents can effectively create and implement social stories to help children develop these essential life skills.

Cleaning Up: Putting Things Away (Social Stories for Neurodiverse Kids)

by Randi-Lee Bowslaugh

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	21 pages

FREE