Social Story: When the Schedule Changes

A first-person social story about unexpected schedule changes such as assemblies, drills, or a visitor, 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 while pointing to the class schedule or a sample change card.Log as correct
  2. Step 2PredictBefore turning the page, ask what might happen next in the school day after the change.Log as cued
  3. Step 3Question promptCue the advocacy line: "What could you ask if you are not sure what happens next?"Log as cued
  4. Step 4Rehearse the planWalk through a sample change (assembly instead of math) and practise showing the break card or asking for a minute.Log as cued

Adjust it

Easier

Use a two-step visual schedule (now / next) for one announced change before reading the full story.

Harder

Introduce a surprise drill announcement and coach the student through asking "What happens next?" without preview.

Matching IEP goal

When the daily schedule changes, Student will ask a clarifying question or use a self-advocacy strategy (break card, adult check-in) in 4 of 5 opportunities across 3 consecutive sessions, given a visual schedule.

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What's in this activity

  • At school, we follow a schedule most days. My teacher posts the plan on the board or reads it during morning meeting.
  • Sometimes the schedule changes. We might have an assembly, a fire drill, a picture day, or a visitor in our room.
  • A change can feel surprising in my body. Many students and grown-ups feel surprised when plans shift.
  • My teacher tells the class what is different and when it will happen. The office staff and specials teachers know the new plan too.
  • I can look at the board, listen during announcements, or raise my hand to ask, "What happens next?"
  • If the change feels too big, I can show my break card or tell an adult, "I need a minute to understand the plan."
  • When I know what comes next, my body often feels calmer. Then I can join my class for the rest of the day.

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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