When I Need a Break Social Story

This social story helps students learn what to do when they need a break. It is designed for students with autism, nonverbal students, AAC users, and special education classrooms. The simple language and clear visuals support self regulation, communication, coping skills, and appropriate break requests.

Slide Overview

Sometimes I Need a Break

I Notice How I Feel

I Can Ask for a Break

I Go to My Break Space

I Help My Body Calm

I Take the Time I Need

I Get Ready to Return

Breaks Help Me

Teachers, SLPs, and parents can use this social story before challenging activities, during calm down routines, in therapy sessions, or at home to help students understand when and how to take a break.

This resource includes 8 simple student facing story slides with clear first person language and supportive visuals. It can be used for individual instruction, small groups, classroom routines, AAC support, and behavior support.

Keywords: autism AAC nonverbal social skills behavior support special education visual supports routines communication classroom management self regulation coping skills calm down break request