Getting Ready For Dinner, Social Skills Story

About This Resource:

This resource isn’t a traditional social story because it’s not written in the first person, but it still offers many of the same benefits. It’s designed to support students struggling to stop playtime and transition to dinner or other less preferred activities.

Why Social Skills Stories Are Such a Great Tool for Elementary Teachers:

• They Simplify Social Concepts – Social skills stories break down tricky social situations — like understanding feelings, perspectives, or why transitions are necessary — into simple, step-by-step explanations that are easier for young learners to grasp.

• They Use Clear, Direct Language – Many students, especially those with autism or other special needs, struggle with figurative language or vague instructions. Social skills stories keep things clear, explicit, and easy to follow.

• They Incorporate Visuals – Since many elementary students are visual learners, adding pictures or illustrations helps reinforce key ideas and makes the content more accessible.

• They Reduce Anxiety Around Transitions – Social skills stories give students a safe way to explore what’s coming next, which helps lower stress and uncertainty when it’s time to transition in real life.

• They Build Empathy – By showing how others might feel or respond in a situation, social skills stories help students begin to understand emotions and perspectives beyond their own.

• They Teach Problem-Solving Skills – These stories provide clear examples of positive behaviors and appropriate responses, giving students strategies they can use in similar situations.

• They Strengthen Communication Skills – Social skills stories also help students learn how to pick up on social cues and respond appropriately in conversations.

• They Support Self-Regulation – When students know what’s expected and understand how their behavior impacts others, they’re better equipped to manage their own actions.

• They Foster Independence – With repeated exposure, students can begin applying what they’ve learned from social stories independently, without constant adult prompting.

I hope you enjoy this resource!

~Socially Skilled Kids