Reviewing and Refining Your Social Story

Introduction to Social Stories

Social Stories are a powerful tool designed to help individuals, particularly those with autism, understand and navigate social situations. Created by Carol Gray, Social Stories use personalized narratives to explain social contexts in a way that is clear and meaningful to the individual.

What is a Social Story?

• Definition: A Social Story is a short, personalized narrative that describes a social situation, event, or concept. It uses simple language and visuals to help the individual understand what to expect and how to respond.
• Purpose: Social Stories aim to reduce anxiety, improve understanding, and promote appropriate social behavior.

Components of a Social Story

1. Descriptive Sentences: These explain the "who, what, where, when, and why" of the situation.
2. Example: "At a birthday party, there will be many people, music, and games."
3. Perspective Sentences: These describe how others might feel or think in the situation.
4. Example: "The birthday child will feel happy when everyone sings 'Happy Birthday.'"
5. Directive Sentences: These provide guidance on how the individual should respond.
6. Example: "When it’s time to sing, I can join in or clap along."

Example: A Social Story About Attending a Birthday Party

• Original Story: "I will go to a birthday party. There will be cake and games. I will have fun."
• Refined Story: "I will go to Sarah’s birthday party. There will be cake, games, and music. Sarah will feel happy when I say 'Happy Birthday.' I can play games and eat cake with my friends."

Why Review and Refine Your Social Story?

Social Stories are not static; they should evolve to remain effective. Regular review and refinement ensure the story stays relevant, clear, and impactful for the individual.

Key Reasons to Review and Refine

1. Improving Clarity: Ensure the language and visuals are easy to understand.
2. Enhancing Relevance: Tailor the story to the individual’s current needs and experiences.
3. Increasing Effectiveness: Adjust the story based on feedback and observed outcomes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reviewing and Refining Your Social Story

Follow this structured process to ensure your Social Story remains effective and meaningful.

Step 1: Assess the Current Social Story

• Check for clarity, relevance, and accuracy.
• Example: Is the language simple enough? Are the visuals appropriate?

Step 2: Gather Feedback

• Collect input from the individual, caregivers, and educators.
• Example: Ask, "Does this story help you understand what to do at the dentist?"

Step 3: Identify Areas for Improvement

• Focus on language, content, and visuals.
• Example: Replace complex words with simpler ones or add more visuals.

Step 4: Make Necessary Adjustments

• Rewrite sentences, add or remove content, and update visuals.
• Example: Add a directive sentence like, "I can take deep breaths if I feel nervous."

Step 5: Test the Revised Social Story

• Read the story together and observe the individual’s response.
• Example: Note if the individual seems more confident or less anxious.

Step 6: Continue to Monitor and Refine

• Regularly review and update the story as the individual’s needs change.
• Example: Update the story if the individual’s understanding or environment evolves.

Practical Examples of Reviewing and Refining Social Stories

Real-world examples help illustrate the process and its impact.

Example 1: A Social Story About Going to the Dentist

• Original Story: "I will go to the dentist. The dentist will check my teeth."
• Refined Story: "I will go to Dr. Smith’s office. Dr. Smith will check my teeth with a small mirror. I can sit still and open my mouth wide. Afterward, I will get a sticker."

Example 2: A Social Story About Sharing Toys

• Original Story: "I will share my toys with my friend."
• Refined Story: "When I play with my friend, we can take turns with the toys. My friend will feel happy when I share. I can say, 'Your turn next!'"

Conclusion

Reviewing and refining Social Stories is essential to ensure they remain effective tools for understanding and navigating social situations.

Key Takeaways

• Social Stories are personalized and should evolve with the individual’s needs.
• Regular updates and feedback are critical for maintaining clarity and relevance.
• Applying the steps and examples provided will help create impactful Social Stories.

By following this guide, you can create and refine Social Stories that empower individuals to thrive in social settings.

References:
- Carol Gray’s Social Stories methodology.
- Feedback from caregivers, educators, and individuals.
- Case studies and user feedback.