What is in this resource
This is a three-page, print-ready A4 social story framework designed to help a child prepare emotionally and practically for visiting an unfamiliar place. It is structured around Carol Gray's Social Story™ approach, using a carefully balanced ratio of descriptive, perspective, coaching, and positive sentences written in simple, calm, first-person language.
Page one contains a colour-coded sentence key so the child and adult can understand the story's structure together. Page two is the story itself, organised into six short sections: what is happening, what it might be like, how I might feel, what I can do, what will happen afterwards, and something good about me. Page three provides clear guidance notes for the adult, including a table of blanks to fill in before use.
How it should be used
Before the visit, an adult fills in the blanks on page two with specific, accurate details - the name of the place, who will accompany the child, and where they will go when the visit ends. Concrete facts are more helpful than vague reassurances, so all details should be as precise as possible.
The story should be read with the child two to five times in the days before the visit, at a calm and unhurried moment. Some children benefit from holding a printed copy on the day itself. After the visit, take a moment to acknowledge the child's effort - this reinforces the positive framing of the story and builds confidence for future new experiences.
Who it is for
This framework is written for children aged 5–7 with autism, though it may also be suitable for children with anxiety, ADHD, or other communication and learning needs who find transitions or unfamiliar environments challenging. The vocabulary and sentence length are calibrated for early primary reading level, and the story can be read aloud by an adult where needed.
It is designed for use in UK primary SEN settings by class teachers, SENCOs, teaching assistants, and parents or carers. Because all place-specific details are left as blanks, the same template can be reused for any new destination - a new school, a medical appointment, a family visit, or a community outing.
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