Free social story maker (printable picture stories)
Free · No sign-up · Prints at true size
Choose a format
Download the PDF
Read it through first: you know your child best.
Print it
Print double-sided, flipping on the short edge, at “Actual size” or 100%. Then fold the sheets in half together and staple on the fold.
Preparing the preview…
A picture story is a short, illustrated story that describes a situation step by step, so a child knows what will happen and what they can do. Many people call these social stories.
How to use it
- 1Start from a ready-made story, like going to the dentist or using the potty.
- 2Change the words to match your child's day. Keep one idea per page.
- 3Swap any picture for a photo of the real place, person or thing.
- 4Read it aloud on screen, or print it as a booklet to fold and staple.
- 5Read it together a few times before the event, when everyone is calm.
Questions
What is a social story?
It's a short story that explains a situation from a child's point of view: what happens, who will be there, and what they can do. The term "Social Stories" was coined by Carol Gray. WayPebble picture stories follow similar principles and aren't affiliated.
What makes a good picture story?
Short, calm sentences in the child's voice ("I sit in a big chair"), one idea per page, and mostly describing what will happen. Say what helps, not what happens if things go wrong. A story should reassure, never warn or threaten.
When should I read it?
Read it a few times in the days before something new, when your child is calm, and again just before. For everyday skills like using the potty, reading it daily for a while helps.
Can I use photos of my own child and places?
Yes. Add photos from your camera roll for any page or the cover. They stay on your device and aren't uploaded.
How do I print the booklet?
Choose Booklet, download the PDF and print it double-sided with "flip on short edge". Fold the sheets in half together and staple along the fold. Or choose Full pages for one big page per sheet.
Use it on a tablet with your child’s own photos Soon
Soon you’ll be able to save boards and stories and run them in a calm, tap-to-finish live mode. Everything here is free to make and print today.