My Space Bubble at School

Explanation

This story targets impulsivity and difficulty interpreting social cues by teaching concrete personal-space rules across school and playground contexts. It uses first-person scripting, brief dialogue, and clear cause–effect payoffs. The arc reinforces noticing cues, asking consent, and repairing quickly when mistakes occur. For this highly verbal 9-year-old, the comic-like pacing and specific language support generalization and self-monitoring.

Recommendations for parents

Practice the “arm’s-length bubble” game at home so the measurement feels natural. Use one consistent cue word, like “bubbles,” to prompt without lecturing. Praise exact behaviors you want repeated: “You stepped back and asked first—that was thoughtful.” Try brief role-plays before school or the park to prime the skills. If they misjudge space, keep feedback short and neutral, then spotlight the repair (“Nice fix—thanks for giving room.”). A small robot sticker on the hoodie can be a private reminder to check bubbles.

Definitions

Social Story

A short, personalized story that teaches what to do in specific situations using simple, positive language.

Replacement behavior

A helpful action taught to take the place of a challenging behavior, like waving instead of poking.

Priming

Practicing or previewing what will happen and what to do before the real situation occurs.

Differential reinforcement

Praising or rewarding the behaviors you want to see more, while giving less attention to the unhelpful ones.

Reading the room

Noticing people’s body language and faces to decide if it’s a good time to be close or interact.