When some kids get angry or frustrated, they might resort to hitting, biting, or even spitting on other people. Obviously, we want to find better ways for kids to regulate in these instances.
That's where these free social stories for spitting come in handy. They can be a good way to start a conversation with your child about why spitting on others isn't okay.
Obviously, you'll also want to discuss times when it's okay to spit and alternatives to spitting. Something that a lot of the following stories, sadly, do not discuss. But let's take a closer look at what's available out there on this particular topic of spitting.
Free Social Stories for Spitting
Have you been looking for a social story on spitting? Then look no further than these free printable no spitting social stories. Some require you to have a Teachers Pay Teachers account (which is free!) before you can download them.
I've rounded up some options for you to explore. That way you can find the best spitting related social story for yourself or your child. Or you can simply use ideas from different stories below to write your own custom story (free social story templates here to help).
Please note that just because a social story is listed here does not mean I endorse its content. After all, many social stories tend to be poorly written and/or teach autistic masking. Besides, I haven't read all of these stories word for word myself. So please read through the stories carefully before using them.
1. 2 Social Stories About Spitting from Happy Learners - Here are two short text-only stories. No pictures are included.
2. Social Story on Spitting from McKSpeechie on TPT - There are actually 4 one-page social stories here, but spitting is one of the topics included. It is mostly text based.
3. Spitting Social Story from Miss Wanda's Classroom on TPT - Here's another one-page social story that is really simple. It does include color photos though, which is great. There are three other stories included as well.
4. Spitting to Gain Attention Social Story from Changing Special Latitudes on TPT - This story uses SymbolStix illustrations to accompany the words. It covers why spitting isn't okay and offers alternative ways to gain attention.
5. My Mouth is Not for Spitting Social Story on Boardmaker - This story talks about different things mouths can do and why you shouldn't spit on others. It uses clipart throughout.
6. Spitting is Gross! I Do Not Spit! Social Story on LessonPix - A 17 page social story that actually talks about places you can spit (something most stories leave out!) and uses colorful clipart throughout. Heads up though, the free sample has giant watermarks on it, but you could always use the story as inspiration to write your own.
7. Social Story About Spitting by Casey Simpkins on TPT - I feel like this story has the wrong image shown in the preview (it looks like a preview for a story about throwing), but it is supposed to be about spitting.
Video Social Stories About Spitting
Here are some video social stories that talk about not spitting on others. You can use these in teletherapy sessions, social skills groups, at home, and/or classroom settings. Videos are always a great alternative to printing off a story.
Like the stories above, some of the wording in these videos aren't always great. But I wanted to make sure you had lots of different options for helping your child understand why they shouldn't spit on others.
Teach Kids Other Ways to Manage Their Anger (Besides Spitting!)
Does your child spit on others when angry? Help them learn more about their anger and find suggestions for managing and coping with anger (besides spitting!) with this anger social story.
Grab your copy of the anger social story
While the bulk of the free social stories for spitting listed above focus on the germ aspect, remember to also discuss with your kids when it's okay to spit (e.g., while brushing your teeth) and offer them alternative ways to get rid of excess spit (e.g., spitting into a sink or trash can).
