What are Social Stories primarily used for?

Social Stories are primarily used to assist individuals in learning interaction methods and understanding social situations. They are specially designed narratives that depict various social scenarios with clear, simple language and accompanying visual supports. The objective of Social Stories is to enhance social understanding and provide guidance for appropriate responses in social contexts, which is essential for individuals on the autism spectrum or those who face challenges with social communication.

While teaching emotional regulation and academic skills could be complementary uses of narratives, the core purpose of Social Stories directly focuses on social interactions and helping individuals navigate various social settings effectively. Promoting physical development is not within the scope of Social Stories, as they do not address physical skills or activities; their primary emphasis is on social communication and understanding.