Social Stories for Summer

Supporting Your Child in New Routines

Going to the pool can be a fun summer activity, but for some children the transitions can be difficult. When you have a child who struggles with transitions, has anxiety about what will happen next, or maybe is easily overstimulated going to the pool can be a difficult event that results in everyone feeling drained. Social stories can help set up the expectations early and can create a plan for how to solve each potential problem.

Let’s be honest: summer is a time of exciting change and plenty of unpredictable situations. One moment, your child is joyfully splashing in the pool, and the next, they are upset in the car on the way to a BBQ. I see you mamas and I know from personal experience as a fellow toddler mom this can be so draining and confusing. As a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I’ve witnessed how summer can bring joy and challenges for kids, especially those who could use a little extra help with transitions, social events, or sensory surprises.

That’s where social stories come into play.

What’s a Social Story, Anyway?

A social story is a brief, personalized narrative that prepares a child for a situation, expectation, or new experience before it happens. It often incorporates visuals, simple language, and gentle encouragement.

Think of it as a preview of what’s to come—a script that helps children feel ready, confident, and secure. Originally created to assist autistic children, social stories are now used with toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged kids to enhance communication, emotional regulation, and behavior.

And guess what? Summer is an ideal time to use them.

When to Use a Social Story This Summer

Here are a few relatable scenarios where a social story can make your summer parenting smoother:

• Going to the Pool: loud noises, new rules, and a lot of kids can be overwhelming. A social story can help set expectations.

• Attending a BBQ or Picnic: unfamiliar foods and large crowds can be stressful. A social story can prepare your child for what to expect.

• Starting Camp or a Playdate: new people and routines can be daunting. A social story can ease the transition.

• Going on Vacation: Long car rides, changes in sleeping arrangements, and adjusted routines can be challenging. A story will clarify these new experiences.

• Fireworks or Parades: These events can be sensory overload. A social story can explain the sights, sounds, and feelings associated with them.

What’s in a Good Social Story?

Here’s what I include when I create social stories for my clients:

1. Keep It Simple: Use straightforward language your child can understand. Short sentences work best.

2. Visual Supports: Add pictures or drawings relevant to the situation. Visuals make the story more engaging.

   
   

3. Personalize It: Adapt the story to your child’s experiences. This makes the social story feel special and meaningful.

   
   

4. Introduce the Situation: Start by explaining what will happen. For example, “We are going to the pool today.”

   
   

5. Explain the Feelings: Acknowledge that it’s normal to have mixed emotions. “It’s okay to feel excited or nervous.”

   
   

6. Outline the Steps (Expectations and What to do): Provide a simple order of events. “First, we will drive to the pool. Then, we will change into our swimsuits.”

   
   

7. End with Reassurance: Close with a calming statement. “I will be there with you. We will have fun together!”

   
   

Creating Your Own Social Story

Making a social story can be a fun activity to do together with your child. Follow these steps for a simple story:

1. Select Your Scenario: Pick a situation, like a visit to an amusement park or a family reunion.

   
   

2. Gather Materials: You’ll need paper, markers, or digital tools if you want to create it online.

   
   

3. Draft Your Story: Use the earlier guidelines to create your draft. Feel free to modify the story based on your child’s input.

   
   

4. Add Pictures: Include images that relate to the scenario. If your child has favorite characters, draw them in or use photographs.

   
   

5. Read Together: After finishing the story, read it together several times. This practice helps your child feel more at ease with what’s coming.

   
   

Practical Tips for Using Social Stories This Summer

As you weave social stories into your summer routine, consider these practical suggestions:

• Use Consistency: Read the social story frequently before the event. This repetition helps your child get comfortable with the situation.

  
  

• Model Behavior: Show your child how to use the story as a guide. Role-play scenarios to demonstrate what to expect.

  
  

• Stay Flexible: Understand that things may not always go as planned. Be ready to adapt your social stories according to your child’s reactions.

  
  

• Be Patient: Changes can still feel overwhelming, even with preparation. Provide extra support and understanding as your child faces new experiences.

  
  

• Reflect Together: After the event, talk about how it went. This discussion can help your child process their feelings and learn for future experiences.

  
  

Social Stories in Action: A Case Study

Let’s illustrate how social stories can be effectively used with a practical example.

Scenario: Attending a birthday party at the park.

Social Story Content:

1. Introduction: “We are going to a birthday party at the park this Saturday.”

   
   

2. Feelings: “It’s okay to feel excited to see our friends. You might also feel a bit shy.”

   
   

3. Steps: “First, we will drive to the park. We will find a spot to sit, then we can play games like tag and enjoy birthday cake.”

   
   

4. Visual Aids: Include pictures of the park, children playing, and birthday cakes to make it relatable.

   
   

5. Reassurance: “I will be with you the whole time, and we will have a great time together. If you want to take a break, we can leave for a little while.”

   
   

   Short. Visual. Empowering. And believe me—these stories work.

Embracing the Summer Adventures

As summer unfolds and surprises come your way, social stories can be your dependable tool to support your child in handling new routines.

This simple approach eases anxiety in children and enhances their communication and understanding. From pool parties to backyard BBQs, tailored stories can help kids confront new challenges with confidence and encouragement.

With some creativity and planning, you can make social stories an essential part of your summer journey. Embrace the joys of summer changes, prepare your little ones with the tools they need, and watch them thrive.

From My Home to Yours: Why I Love Social Stories

As a mom, I’ve used social stories to help my own toddlers prepare for their first plane ride, meet a new babysitter, and yes—even visit the dentist.

As a speech-language pathologist, I’ve seen kids who used to dread outings start to look forward to them.

When kids know what to expect, they feel less anxious—and that opens the door to connection, communication, and confidence.

Are you ready to create social stories with your child for all the thrilling summer adventures ahead? Happy storytelling!

Want to Try One? I’ve Got You.

I’ve created a set of Summer Social Story Kits for some of the most common seasonal events—each one therapist-approved and toddler-tested. They come with a simple printable book, visuals, and tips for personalizing it to your child.

• Going to the Pool

• Eating at a BBQ or Picnic

• Starting Summer Camp or Playdates

• Vacation & Travel Days

• Fireworks and Loud Events

Reach out to grab one or let me help you create a custom story just for your child.