Learning to Use Our Words, Not Spit

When to use this story

This social story is particularly helpful for preschoolers navigating their emotions and interactions with peers. Use it when you notice your child expressing frustration or upset through behaviors like spitting. It serves as a gentle guide to encourage them to utilize words as a tool for communication, fostering both emotional expression and understanding in various settings like home or the classroom.

What's inside

"Learning to Use Our Words, Not Spit" is crafted to resonate with young children. It begins with the simple acknowledgment that feeling upset is a part of life. The narrative highlights how these feelings can lead to behaviors like spitting, which may not be well-received by friends. Through relatable scenarios, children are shown alternative ways to express themselves. The story encourages them to articulate their feelings by saying phrases like, "I'm upset" or "I need help." This narrative not only promotes emotional literacy but also reinforces the importance of positive communication in maintaining friendships and classroom harmony. Each page is designed with engaging illustrations and straightforward language, making it accessible and relatable for preschoolers.

What kids learn

Children will learn valuable skills through this story, including:

• Recognizing and naming their feelings.
• Understanding the impact of their actions on others.
• Utilizing words to express emotions rather than resorting to unkind behaviors.
• Developing empathy for their friends and understanding the importance of communication.
• Building confidence in expressing their needs and feelings in a respectful manner.

Research context

The tradition of using social stories, particularly those inspired by the work of Carol Gray, provides a solid foundation for promoting social understanding and communication skills among young children. Research in narrative-based social-emotional learning (SEL) underscores the effectiveness of storytelling as a means to teach children crucial social skills. Stories like this one offer relatable scenarios that help children process their emotions and navigate social interactions in a supportive manner.

Tips for parents and educators

• Read the story together regularly to reinforce the concepts.
• Encourage your child to share their feelings openly after reading.
• Role-play different scenarios from the story using words instead of actions.
• Use positive reinforcement when your child communicates effectively.
• Create a calm space for discussions about feelings and emotions.
• Incorporate vocabulary from the story into daily conversations to enhance understanding.