Abstract

Social Narratives are a simple, evidence-based intervention to help children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other developmental delays to understand appropriate social behaviours and overcome the anxiety associated with social situations. This practical guide explains how to create and use personalised Social Narratives with children aged 4+.

Drawing on the latest autism theory and findings from research, the author provides step-by- step guidelines for writing and using Social Narratives at home or in the classroom. She describes clearly the key components of the approach, including incorporating the interests of the child, using literal and positive language and including visuals and comprehension questions to support learning. 27 sample Social Narratives are also included, to provide inspiration and useful examples of how Social Narratives can be used in practice.

Perfect for improving social behaviour in children with ASD, this book will be a valuable resource for teachers, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and educational psychologists, as well as parents.

As a mother of a child with autism, I found Dr. Sonia Morris's book clearly written, well researched and easy to follow. My own child enjoyed and benefited from social stories in her school setting but I wished I had Sonia's book earlier as a guideline, so that I could have made more of my own stories for her.
Lucy Harmon, parent
Another step forward in learning how to positively support kids on the autism spectrum to improve their social abilities! Social Narratives are evidence based and firmly grounded in an understanding of how autism interferes with kids learning social behaviours. Everything is clearly explained with multiple examples so you'll be writing successful narratives in no time! If you want a proven tactic in a simple format requiring only minutes of time each day, this book is for you.
Dr Rita Honan, Clinical, Counselling & Educational Psychologist in private practice, Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin
Social Narratives by Sonia Morris is a well organised guide for teachers, families and caregivers of children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Morris describes how and why social narratives are a useful intervention that can improve social competence and quality of life for children with social difficulties... The author's child-centered approach is apparent throughout the book and thereby helps the adult to see the world through the eyes of the child... Morris also includes some solutions to problems that she has encountered and this adds to the practical usefulness of the book. The book concludes with some sample social narratives that are inspired by stories used successfully with children with ASDs... In conclusion, this book offers a practical and child-centered approach to social narrative writing. It is user-friendly and can be used in a home or school setting... Each story is unique and the physical presence of a single narrative which includes special interests and photos can become a treasured possession of a child with ASD. This in itself can reinforce the social lesson that the narrative was designed to teach.
Jean Timmins, teacher and principal
REACH Journal of Special Needs Education in Ireland
Sonia Morris, PhD, has focused her career on the evaluation, development and implementation of intervention strategies and resource tools to improve the behaviour, and in particular the social behaviour of those on the autism spectrum. She has worked with both children and adults across the spectrum for over seven years. Sonia lives in Dublin, Ireland.