I Can Take a Break / Need a Break – Autism Social Story Book & Visual Supports

This is a digital product.

A 41 Page Resource

“I Can Take a Break” is a beautifully illustrated, neuroaffirmative Social Story designed to support Autistic students in recognising when they need a break and confidently taking one. Developed by Amanda McGuinness of Little Puddins, this visual-based resource empowers Autistic children by teaching self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and independence in a supportive, identity-affirming way. The resource also includes interactive elements to personalise break choices and request cards, making it ideal for both home and educational settings.

What’s Inside the Resource?

• A gentle, illustrated Social Story that explains when and how to take a break.
  
• Break request cards (multiple design options) for verbal and non-verbal communication.
  
• Visual break choice boards options to support autonomy and co-regulation.
  
• Multiple front cover and back cover designs for personalisation.
  
  
• Visual prompts for “Tricky Times,” “Asking for Help,” “Using My Break Card,” and more.
  
• Optional pages that speak onbreak areas, use timers, and support transitions back to class.
  
• A clear layout with visual consistency to reduce cognitive load.
  

Skills This Resource Supports

• Self-advocacy and emotional awareness
  
• Independence and autonomy
  
• Visual communication and AAC
  
• Transitions and classroom inclusion
  
• Understanding and managing sensory or emotional overload
  
• Regulation through co-created break plans
  

Who Is This Resource For?

• Autistic children and young people
  
• Neurodivergent learners who benefit from visual structure
  
• Teachers, SNAs, and classroom assistants
  
• SEN coordinators and therapists
  
• Parents, guardians, and home educators
  
• Inclusive classrooms and resource teaching settings
  

Why Families & Professionals Love It

• Created by an Autistic specialist, ensuring authentic, neuroaffirmative insight
  
• Promotes self-regulation through meaningful, consent-based strategies
  
• Customisable to suit a wide range of communication and regulation needs
  
• Supports classroom harmony while respecting Autistic communication
  
• Encourages collaborative planning between educators, students, and families
  
• Uses simple, accessible language paired with engaging visuals
  

Support your Autistic students in recognising and responding to their needs with clarity and confidence. This adaptable “My Take a Break” book is more than a Social Story—it’s a daily self-advocacy tool that supports thriving, not just surviving.