ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an introduction to the theory and practice of writing social stories. It provides examples of successful social stories written by parents and those working in schools or community settings. The book explains the term 'parent' to include all those acting in the parent, carer role and uses 'teachers' as a general term for all those working in schools focusing on the needs of children and young people. It includes learning-support assistants, learning mentors and teaching assistants who add to the bedrock of expertise in the classroom and school. The terms 'supporter' and 'support worker' are used for all those working to meet the needs of adults with autism. Early years practitioners are often the first to identify the strong impact that sensory development has on the behaviour of children with autism.
