Using My AAC Device to Ask for a Break Social Story for Autism

This AAC social story helps students with autism, nonverbal communicators, AAC users, and students in special education learn how to use an AAC device to ask for a break. Simple first person language and clear visuals support communication, self advocacy, and classroom independence.

Slide Overview

I Can Ask for a Break

I Notice How I Feel

I Find My AAC Device

I Choose My Break Message

I Share My Message

I Wait for My Break

I Take My Break

I Am Ready to Return

Teachers, SLPs, and parents can use this social story before difficult activities, during communication practice, or as part of a daily routine at school, in therapy, or at home. It can also be reviewed before situations when a student may need extra support asking for a break.

This resource includes 8 simple student facing social story slides with consistent visuals, short first person sentences, AAC support, and clear examples of asking for and taking a break.

Keywords: autism, AAC, nonverbal, social skills, behavior support, special education, visual supports, routines, communication, classroom management.