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Social Story: Hitting Can Hurt, Safe Hands Can Help

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This social story helps children understand that hitting can happen when they feel angry, frustrated, worried, or overwhelmed, and teaches them safer ways to express big feelings. It supports children in using safe hands, asking for help, taking a break, and learning calm strategies instead of hitting.

Who is this social story for?

This story is especially helpful for autistic children, neurodivergent children, and any child who may hit when they feel upset, overloaded, frustrated, or unable to explain what they need.

When can I use this social story?

Use it before school, playtime, transitions, busy situations, or any time a child may need support to remember safe hands and calm choices.

What does this story help with?

  • understanding that hitting can hurt others
  • recognising feelings such as anger, worry, and frustration
  • noticing body signs like feeling tense, hot, or full of energy
  • using safe hands instead of hitting
  • asking for help, space, or a break
  • learning calm-down strategies
  • building emotional regulation and safer communication

Sometimes I feel angry, frustrated, worried, or overwhelmed

I want a turn NOW!

My body may feel tense, hot, or full of energy

When I feel this way, I may want to hit, but hitting can hurt people

They can stop being my friends

I can pause, move away, or ask for space

I need to be alone right now

Instead of hitting, I can say, “I need help,” “Please stop,” or “I need a break.”

I need a break

Using safe hands helps me and others stay safe

I can choose not to hit
Copyright - socialstorytemplates.com

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