Going on Vacation Social Story

Vacations can be an exciting break in routine, but also filled with uncertainty for many children. For kids on the autism spectrum especially, new environments and activities can heighten confusion and anxiety without proper preparation. This social story resource aims to walk children through vacation travel and experiences in a detailed yet reassuring way.

The story uses simple language and visual supports across different possible vacation scenarios. There are pages covering modes of transport like cars, trains and airplanes to reach your destination and popular accommodations like hotels, rental houses, cruises and camping.

Common emotions a child may feel throughout are validated and labeled with suggestions for coping strategies are woven in. There are also 3 different versions of the story to cover who the child is travelling with; their family, mom or dad.

Walking through the entire vacation process start to finish across potential experiences, this social story resource allows caregivers to tailor preparation to their child’s unique upcoming trip. By naming specific sites, sounds, activities and feelings to expect, uncertainty is diminished. Kids on the spectrum can practice flexibility while enjoying a new adventure, set up for success through this method that caters to their learning style.

Included in this resource are 3 different versions of the 29 page PDF social story