Social Story Template

Social Story Template

Social stories help children understand social situations by making invisible expectations and others’ perspectives explicit through narrative. Creating effective social stories requires a specific structure that balances descriptive, perspective, and directive sentences. This template provides a ready-to-use framework with fill-in prompts so SLPs and parents can quickly create personalized social stories for any situation.

What This Template Covers

The Social Story Template is a printable PDF with labeled sections and fill-in-the-blank prompts that guide you through creating a complete social story:

The Situation

A fill-in section for describing the specific social situation the story addresses. Prompts guide you to include where it happens, who is involved, and what typically occurs. Space for writing 2 to 3 descriptive sentences that set the scene.

How Others Feel

A fill-in section for perspective sentences that describe what other people in the situation might be thinking or feeling. Prompts help you consider multiple perspectives and explain why others might react the way they do.

What I Can Do

A fill-in section for 1 to 2 directive sentences suggesting appropriate responses. Prompts use supportive language like “I can try…” to keep the tone positive and flexible rather than rigid or demanding.

A Positive Ending

A fill-in section for an affirmative closing statement that reassures the child about their ability to handle the situation. Prompts encourage a confident, optimistic ending.

Illustration Space

A blank area on each section for the child to draw pictures or for the adult to add photographs that support comprehension and engagement.

How to Use This Template

Identify a specific social situation your child or student finds challenging. Fill in each section of the template, keeping language at or slightly below the child’s reading level. Read the completed story with the child before they encounter the target situation. Discuss the story afterward and role-play the suggested responses. Use the story consistently for 2 to 4 weeks, reading it before the relevant situation arises. Print fresh copies as needed for new social situations — the template can be reused for any scenario throughout the school year.