Riding the School Bus Social Story for Autism Special Education

Riding the Bus to School – Social Story for Autistic Students | Visual & Neuroaffirmative Support

Description:
Support Autistic children as they prepare to ride the school bus with this gentle, neuroaffirmative Riding the Bus to School social story. Created by Amanda McGuinness, Autism & Visual Supports Specialist at Little Puddins, this resource centres the child’s experience, offering predictability, emotional safety, and respectful visual language that validates diverse responses to transition.

Whether a child is riding the bus for the first time or needs extra support with this part of their routine, this modular social story can be personalised to meet individual needs, making it a valuable tool for families, teachers, and support staff alike.

What’s Inside the Resource?

• 15-page full-colour social story featuring clear, supportive language
  
• Engaging visuals designed for clarity and accessibility
  
• Step-by-step guidance on what to expect when riding the bus
  
• Printable and laminate-friendly format (cut-and-bind flipbook option)
  
• Suggestions for use in calm, co-regulated moments
  
• Visual and written prompts that open space for emotional processing and preparation
  

Skills This Resource Supports:

• Predictability and routine comprehension
  
• Transition support and daily readiness
  
• Visual processing and receptive understanding
  
• Emotional regulation and co-regulation opportunities
  
• Communication and confidence around new experiences
  

Who Is This Resource For?

• Autistic children preparing for school transportation
  
• Families and caregivers introducing bus routines
  
• Educators and SNAs seeking neuroaffirmative tools
  
• Transport staff working with neurodivergent students
  
• Inclusive preschool and primary classroom environments
  

Why Families & Professionals Love It:

• Developed by a leading Autism & Visual Supports Specialist
  
• Empowers Autistic children with respectful, identity-affirming content
  
• Can be read together to support co-regulation and connection
  
• Modular format allows personalisation to suit the child’s needs
  
• Promotes confidence and autonomy in navigating the school day
  

Additional Information:
This resource includes clear instructions for printing, laminating, and binding. It is designed to be revisited over time and adapted for ongoing use as a visual and regulatory support.

Created by Amanda McGuinness – Little Puddins
Explore more neuroaffirmative visual supports and social stories in the Little Puddins store, where every resource is developed through lived experience, professional expertise, and a commitment to Autistic inclusion.