Social Story: I can use kind words when things are hard

Help children learn how to communicate respectfully during difficult moments with this supportive social story.

I Can Use Kind Words When Things Feel Hard is designed for children who may use hurtful or unkind language when they feel angry, frustrated, disappointed, or overwhelmed.

Using simple, child-friendly language, this resource helps children understand that difficult feelings are okay while teaching them safer, kinder ways to express what they need. It introduces practical phrases children can use, encourages them to pause before speaking, and reminds them that they can ask a trusted adult for help.

This social story can help children:

• Identify feelings such as anger, frustration, and disappointment
• Understand how their words can affect others
• Practice kind and respectful replacement phrases
• Ask for help, space, or a break
• Build emotional regulation and communication skills
• Repair relationships after making a mistake

Perfect for families, teachers, counselors, therapists, and other clinicians, this resource can be used at home, in the classroom, during individual support, or before situations that may feel challenging.

Read the story regularly and practice the suggested phrases during calm moments so they are easier for the child to remember when emotions feel big.

Please note: This is a digital resource. No physical product will be shipped. This material is intended as an educational support and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice.