Starting School: Meeting Friends and Following Routines

When to use this story

This social story is perfect for children starting preschool or transitioning to a new classroom environment. It can be particularly helpful during the weeks leading up to school, as well as on the first few days. By using this story, parents and educators can support children in understanding what to expect from their new surroundings, helping to ease any feelings of nervousness. It can also be beneficial during moments when children may need a reminder about routines and how to connect with their peers.

What's inside

"Starting School: Meeting Friends and Following Routines" invites children to step into the shoes of a young learner embarking on their exciting school journey. The story begins with the child entering the classroom, feeling both excitement and a hint of nervousness. With comforting phrases such as, "I say goodbye to my parent with a big hug," children can relate to the warmth of familiar connections as they begin their day. As they explore their environment, they learn the importance of following routines, like putting their backpack in a cubby and participating in activities like "circle time." The narrative encourages children to observe their peers and join in play, reinforcing the value of friendship and cooperation.

In addition to the story, this resource includes various engaging activities to further support learning outcomes. These activities encompass vocabulary building, spelling, comprehension, open-ended inquiries, creative expressions, and role-play scenarios, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding social dynamics in a classroom setting.

What kids learn

Through this story, children learn valuable skills such as:

• Understanding and managing feelings about new experiences, including excitement and nervousness.
• Recognizing the importance of routines in a school environment.
• Developing social skills necessary for making friends and participating in group activities.
• Enhancing vocabulary related to school and friendship.
• Practicing listening and comprehension skills during structured times, like circle time.

Research context

The tradition of using social stories to support children in navigating everyday situations is well-established. Originating from the work of Carol Gray, social stories provide a narrative-based approach to help children understand social cues and expectations. Research in the field of narrative-based social emotional learning (SEL) highlights the benefits of storytelling as a tool for fostering emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. Using social stories like this one can create a supportive space for children as they explore new social landscapes.

Tips for parents and educators

• Read the story together several times to build familiarity and comfort.
• Encourage your child to share their feelings about starting school before and after reading.
• Use role-play activities to practice greetings and joining play with peers.
• Discuss the routines mentioned in the story, and create a visual schedule at home to follow.
• Reinforce the themes of friendship by setting up playdates with classmates.
• Celebrate small achievements as your child navigates their school day, reinforcing their sense of accomplishment.