Calm and Happy at School - Printable Social Story

This printable social story, 'Calm and Happy at School,' is designed to support your child's emotional regulation and social skills. Through relatable sentences, children learn to express their feelings and seek help when needed.

• Engaging illustrations
• Simple, clear language
• Encourages asking for help and taking breaks

Perfect for preschoolers, this resource fosters a positive school experience. Disclaimer: This resource supports learning. It does not replace professional advice.

When to use this story

This social story is perfect for early elementary-aged children, particularly those who may find school environments to be overwhelming at times. It can be especially helpful when preparing for the school day, during transitions, or when discussing emotions related to classroom experiences. Use this story to support children in building confidence, managing their feelings, and developing social skills in a familiar setting.

What's inside

"Calm and Happy at School" introduces readers to Thomas, a young boy who shares his experiences in a school environment. Through relatable scenarios, Thomas expresses his love for learning and his interest in insects while also addressing the challenges he faces in a busy classroom. Some key moments in the story include:

• Recognizing feelings of confusion in a loud, bustling environment.
• Understanding what to do when feeling overwhelmed, like taking a breath or asking for help.
• Identifying a calm spot in the classroom where he can find some quiet time.

The story incorporates engaging activities such as vocabulary building, spelling, comprehension questions, and opportunities for open-ended responses and role-playing. These activities encourage children to reflect on their own experiences and practice the skills they learn throughout the story.

What kids learn

Through Thomas’s journey, children will learn to:

• Recognize and name their feelings, especially during moments of confusion or distress in school.
• Use calming strategies, such as taking deep breaths, to manage emotions effectively.
• Communicate their needs and ask for help in a respectful way.
• Identify safe spaces in their school environment where they can relax and regain focus.
• Develop positive social connections with peers and teachers by practicing friendship skills.

Research context

The use of social stories, as established in the tradition of Carol Gray's work, has shown to be effective in helping children understand social situations and navigate their feelings. Narrative-based approaches to social-emotional learning (SEL) also support children's ability to process their experiences and develop practical skills in real-world contexts. This evidence base highlights the importance of storytelling in fostering emotional regulation and interpersonal skills among children.

Tips for parents and educators

• Read the story together with your child, discussing their thoughts and feelings about each scenario.
• Encourage your child to role-play different situations from the story to practice what they would say or do.
• Create a calm spot in your home or classroom similar to Thomas’s, where your child can go to regroup when feeling overwhelmed.
• Use the vocabulary and comprehension activities to reinforce the concepts in the story and make learning fun.
• Check in regularly with your child about their feelings at school, using the story as a reference point to guide the conversation.
• Celebrate small successes when your child uses the strategies they've learned in real-life situations.