The arrival of a new sibling is a massive change, even for neurotypical children. For a child with ASD, who relies heavily on predictability and routine, this event can be a source of profound anxiety, confusion, and potential behavioral regression. The baby introduces loud, unpredictable sounds, smells, a major shift in parental attention, and an end to the established family routine. A Social Story is an invaluable tool for preparing them, offering a detailed, personalized script that demystifies the event and outlines the expected changes. The question of what should I include in a social story to prepare my child with ASD for a new sibling requires a focus on honesty, emotional validation, and concrete expectations.
Understanding the Mechanism
Social Stories, developed by Carol Gray, use a simple narrative structure to explain social situations, cues, and appropriate responses. For this life-changing event, the story must address the child’s key anxieties: “Will you still love me?” and “What will be different?” It needs to provide a clear, step-by-step preview of the process.
Natural Strategies to Try
Focus on concrete details, validation, and a positive role for the child.
The Big Change & Emotions: Validate their feelings honestly: “Soon, there will be a new baby. Sometimes, I might feel excited. Sometimes, I might feel sad or confused. It is okay to have all feelings.” Include pictures of the child making those faces.
The Baby’s Arrival and Sound: Use concrete language to describe the baby: “The baby is very small. The baby will be in the crib. The baby will cry a little when they are hungry. Crying is the baby’s way to talk.” Include a picture of the baby crying and the child covering their ears.
The New Routine and Your Special Time: Be explicit about the new schedule. “When the baby is sleeping, I can have special time with [Child’s Name]. We can read your favorite book or play with the trains for 10 minutes.” Include a picture of the special time activity.
The Child’s Role (The Helper): Give the child a concrete, manageable, and positive job to do. “I can be a good helper. I can bring Mommy a diaper. I can sing a quiet song to the baby.”
Lifestyle Tips for Long-Term Success
Pair the story with tangible, non-stressful rehearsal.
Practice with a Doll: Use a doll to practice gentle touching, how to hold the baby, and what not to do (no loud noises near the doll).
Preview the Space: Take the child to the baby’s room and let them touch the crib, the soft blankets, and the toys, making the new space predictable.
Immediate Post-Arrival Special Time: After the baby is born, ensure the child has dedicated, uninterrupted time with a parent immediately to solidify the promise of “special time.”
The social story is your child’s map to a changing world. Knowing what should I include in a social story to prepare my child with ASD for a new sibling allows you to navigate this significant transition with empathy and structure. What “special time” activity will you prioritize with your child?