Fear of insects Social Story

For children who experience intense fear or phobias related to insects, this social story resource provides supporting explanations and coping strategies. Specifically tailored for children on the autism spectrum who may struggle reading social cues, the story aims to logically address the reasons behind insect fears and equip children with skills to manage them.

Using a reassuring tone, the social story explains how most insects pose no real danger to humans, as many are so tiny compared to a person’s size. While some insects like bees can sting, the story gives facts about how insect stings rarely cause serious harm. It also highlights all the useful things insects do, like pollinating plants.

The second half of the story outlines constructive ways children can deal with insect fears when encountered. This includes techniques like staying calm, thinking logical thoughts about how small insects are, and reminding themselves that insects are useful to their earth.

By addressing both the emotional and reality-based sides of insect fears, this social story uses clear language and visuals to teach autistic children coping methods. It validates their feelings while also gently challenging catastrophic thinking. The final outcome is a set of strategies children can employ themselves when afraid, giving them skills, reassurance, and power to manage phobias.

These books should be used over and over to reinforce the point so I would suggest either putting the pages into a display book or laminating and binding them.

Clipart images courtesy of Kari Bolt Clip Art