Social Story: Waiting in the Cafeteria Line

A first-person social story about waiting in the cafeteria line at lunch, with a coping step the student can choose.

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Cueing ladder

Start at the top. Add support one step at a time.

  1. Step 1Read togetherRead the page aloud together, or let the student read while you follow along.Log as correct
  2. Step 2Picture walkPoint to a photo or school diagram while you read the page about waiting in the cafeteria line at lunch.Log as cued
  3. Step 3Wh- questionAsk one concrete question from the page and wait for an answer.Log as cued
  4. Step 4Role-playAct out the situation and coach the strategy: take slow breaths while waiting.Log as cued

Adjust it

Easier

Practise only the coping page with a visual choice board before reading the full story.

Harder

Add a surprise change and rehearse asking an adult what happens next.

Matching IEP goal

Given a social story about waiting in the cafeteria line at lunch, Student will name one strategy and use it in structured role-play in 4 of 5 opportunities across 3 consecutive sessions, given no more than a visual prompt.

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What's in this activity

  • At lunch my class walks to the cafeteria in a line. Many students want food at the same time.
  • Our school has a line on the floor. Waiting in line is part of lunch.
  • Sometimes the line moves slowly because trays take time or friends are talking. That can feel frustrating.
  • The lunch staff and my teacher want everyone to get food safely. Other students wait too.
  • While I wait I can take slow breaths, look at the menu board, or count how many trays are ahead.
  • When it is my turn I can say what I want in a calm voice, take my tray, and say thank you.
  • Then I walk to my table with my class. When my body has food, I am ready to eat and talk quietly.

Use this board with your caseload

With a free account, every correct, cued and incorrect mark is saved to the student and scored against their IEP goal, with the data written up for you. Assign it as home practice through the parent portal.

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