Time to Tidy Up and Go Home

When to use this story

This social story is a wonderful resource for preschoolers who are learning how to transition from school to home. It is particularly helpful during the end-of-day routine when children may feel a mix of emotions, such as happiness and tiredness. Using this story can make the process smoother, as it gently guides children through tidying up and bidding farewell to their friends. If your child needs support with routines or transitions, this story can provide comfort and clarity.

What's inside

"Time to Tidy Up and Go Home" is a delightful printable social story that captures the end-of-day experience in a preschool setting. The narrative begins with the statement, "The school day is almost over," inviting children to reflect on their feelings. It explains the importance of tidying up one’s belongings, starting with simple actions like putting crayons back in their box. The story includes relatable elements such as seeing familiar items at their desk, which helps children visualize their own experiences. In addition, it encourages saying goodbye to friends, making the transition from school to home feel more complete. The story is complemented by engaging activities that focus on vocabulary, spelling, comprehension, creativity, and role-playing, enhancing the learning experience.

What kids learn

Through this story, children learn to:

• Identify their emotions related to the end of the school day.
• Understand the routine of tidying up and preparing to go home.
• Recognize the importance of friendships and saying goodbye.
• Practice sequencing their actions in daily routines.
• Engage with language and literacy skills through related activities.

Research context

The tradition of using social stories, established by Carol Gray, supports children's understanding of social situations through clear and relatable narratives. Research in narrative-based social-emotional learning (SEL) underscores the effectiveness of stories in fostering social understanding and emotional regulation. By integrating storytelling into daily routines, children can better navigate transitions and enhance their social skills in a supportive manner.

Tips for parents and educators

• Read the story together at the end of the school day to establish a calming routine.
• Encourage your child to act out the tidying up process using their own items at home.
• Discuss feelings about leaving school and friends to validate their emotions.
• Reinforce the importance of saying goodbye as a part of their daily routine.
• Use the activities in the story to reinforce vocabulary and comprehension skills.
• Personalize the story by adding illustrations or photos from your child’s school day.