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Social stories are a valuable tool developed by Carol Gray that helps individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities navigate everyday social situations with greater confidence and understanding. These stories serve as autism support tools for communication, creating a bridge between parents, professionals and individuals to ensure clear and meaningful interaction.

At their core, social stories aim to prepare participants for upcoming events by outlining what to expect, practice how they are going to behave and rehearse how they can manage emotions in various scenarios. Whether it’s a doctor’s visit or a birthday party, social skills stories for kids with autism provide structure and predictability, which reduces anxiety and promotes positive experiences.

Step-by-step guide to creating social stories for developmental needs

Using social stories in special education allows educators and caregivers to break down social situations into manageable steps. Each story acts as both a visual and emotional guide. A well-written social story will typically:

1. Describe the situation or event – offering context and setting the scene.
2. Explain expected behaviours – clarifying what to do in the moment.
3. Address emotional regulation – providing coping strategies for feelings like anxiety or frustration.
4. Show outcomes – reinforcing positive behaviours and their results.

For those looking to begin, it's helpful to first learn how to write a social story that is tailored to the individual's needs, interests and comprehension level.

Social story examples for daily routines

"Going to the doctor"

• I sit in the waiting room until my name is called.
• The doctor will check my height, weight and heart rate/blood pressure.
• If I feel nervous, I can tell the doctor or a trusted adult.
• After the check-up, I will leave and go home feeling proud!

"Going to a birthday party"

• I will arrive and say "hello" to the birthday person.
• I will put my gift in the gift area.
• There will be music and games I can join if I want.
• If I don’t want to play, I can watch.
• If I feel uncomfortable, I can take a break.
• At the end, I will say "goodbye" and thank them.

These social stories for developmental disabilities are adaptable for any situation and help make social experiences more predictable.

Visual social stories for nonverbal Autism

Social stories are especially powerful for nonverbal individuals. Visual social stories for nonverbal autism rely on images, routines and personal interests to explain social contexts clearly. These visual supports offer individuals with limited verbal skills a reliable way to understand and anticipate what’s coming next.

A highly effective method involves creating social stories with pictures by combining real-life photos with PECS social stories. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) allows individuals to express themselves using images, which can be embedded directly into the story to enhance understanding and interaction.

You can also integrate Boardmaker social story examples, using their widely recognised picture symbols. For example, a social story about visiting a playground might include Boardmaker icons for "wait," "slide," "friend," or "take turns" alongside actual photos of the child’s local playground. These visuals make the experience relatable and accessible.

Why social stories are important

For individuals with autism and other developmental needs, autism visual supports offer predictability, reduce stress and promote independence. They help users learn appropriate responses, manage feelings and build confidence.

Caregivers and educators also benefit. Social stories serve as consistent, proactive tools to address concerns, teach social norms and encourage positive behaviours. They make it easier to introduce change, reinforce structure and adapt materials to meet each person’s needs.

The benefits for all involved

The outcomes of using social stories are significant. Individuals gain clarity, emotional security, and improved communication. Caregivers gain a structured, empathetic method to support and connect. When implemented well, social stories for developmental disabilities become part of a supportive environment that nurtures growth and inclusion.

Ultimately, whether you’re creating social stories with pictures or using tools like Boardmaker or PECS social stories, these resources represent a compassionate approach to helping individuals with autism better understand their world. 

They’re not just learning aids - they’re tools of empowerment, understanding and genuine connection.

Chat with Incluso today to learn how we can assist you or a loved one with support. 

What is Support Coordination? 

NDIS Support Coordination is a service that helps participants make the most of their NDIS plans by turning their goals into reality. A support coordinator acts as a guiding hand, helping participants navigate the complexities of the scheme, and translate their NDIS plan into practical, achievable steps. 

Their aim is to make the process less overwhelming and to empower participants to exercise real choice and control.

NDIS coordinators work closely with participants to connect them with the right services, whether it’s finding a therapist, arranging community access or organising day-to-day supports. 

They focus on building capacity, confidence and independence over time.

If you’re searching for ‘support coordination near me’, it’s important to find someone who understands your goals and tailors their support to your individual needs. 

Quality support coordination goes beyond simply arranging services; it’s about helping you lead a more independent, fulfilling life and getting the best possible outcomes from your NDIS experience.

How Support Coordination Works

NDIS Support Coordination Guidelines 

A support coordinator’s role is not just administrative, they empower participants by building their skills and independence. Key responsibilities include helping participants understand their NDIS plan, connecting them with appropriate services, and building their ability to navigate the NDIS and make their own decisions. Disability support coordination services are crucial for participants seeking guidance across different aspects of their plan.

Support coordinators can also help with: 

• Personalised support approaches
• Establishing and maintaining service connections
• Monitoring plan budgets
• Tracking the effectiveness of supports

Whether you're accessing level 1 support coordination for basic connection or level 2 coordination of supports for more comprehensive management, a strong disability support coordinator can make all the difference.

They also play a critical role in crisis planning, prevention and action by preparing participants for unexpected events which is an essential element of both independent support coordination and specialised support coordination. Reporting back to the NDIA is another important task this role encompasses, ensuring that the participant’s progress and needs are properly documented in line with NDIS support coordination guidelines.

Ultimately, the support coordinator’s approach depends on each participant’s unique goals, circumstances and the specific supports funded in their plan. 

The Role of an NDIS plan support coordinator: 

A NDIS plan coordinator or NDIS plan support coordinator plays a vital role in helping participants bring their NDIS plan to life. Whether you’re looking for independent support coordination or need guidance navigating your options, a skilled coordinator can make a big difference. They work closely with you to identify the right services, manage service agreements, and make sure your supports are working together smoothly. 

Choosing an independent support coordinator ensures you get unbiased advice tailored to your goals. If you're managing multiple providers or facing complex needs, specialist support coordination may be recommended to help you achieve greater independence and community participation.

Levels of Support Coordination Services:

Support coordination services offer participants the practical help they need to put their NDIS plan into action. Whether you are seeking basic guidance or specialised help, there are different types of support coordination to match different needs. 

Level 1 Support Coordination: Support connection focuses on building your ability to connect with a wide range of supports, from informal networks like family and friends to community groups and funded services. Under the NDIS support coordination guidelines, this level helps you make the most of your NDIS plan by linking you with the right services and supports. 

Level 2 Support Coordination: Coordination of Supports or COS NDIS, are designed to help you develop the skills you need to understand and manage your NDIS plan. A dedicated NDIS plan coordinator or independent support coordinator works alongside you to bring together the right mix of services. 

Level 3 Specialist Support Coordination: For participants with more complex needs, NDIS specialist support coordination provides a higher level of help. A specialist support coordinator or disability support coordinator can assist in navigating complex challenges, coordinating multiple services and ensuring consistent service delivery. They ensure you have strong support systems in place, especially when the situation requires specialised expertise. If you’re searching for NDIS plan support coordination that addresses higher complexities, this level of service may be the best fit.

Chat to our specialised consultants about how we can support your NDIS journey, here.

Understanding accessibility and inclusion, here’s how we approach it 

Incluso’s disability support workers have a shared passion for both inclusion and accessibility in Australia. Our ethos began first with a commitment to trust, as well as a strong sense of pride in how we deliver quality support for people with disabilities.

Our NDIS disability support workers ensure that participants have equal access to physical spaces, social and community participation, and assistance with daily living. 

By creating inclusive environments, our disability workers empower individuals to fully engage in all aspects of life, which promotes independence, self-confidence and greater community involvement. This understanding of what actually goes into making spaces and experiences inclusive is how we, as a reliable NDIS provider, actively contribute to improving accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.

The benefits of inclusion

We understand that disability rights and inclusion go beyond physical access. It’s also about creating a sense of belonging and value for individuals living with a disability. It’s our role as disability support workers to provide these inclusive avenues that foster community support, so that participants are able to create richer life for themselves, on their own terms, irrespective of their ability level.

Another foundational part of being a disability support worker is to ensure that all participants and their families receive well-rounded support, including emotional, physical and mental assistance. The benefits of social inclusion for disabled individuals can only be so effective, if it’s falling on individuals who have other unmet needs – so a well-rounded approach is key to the care we provide.

Our team are trained with a high level of humility, kindness and patience, with the aim of cultivating a truly safe space for the participants they look after, beyond the expected day-to-day fulfillments. 

How our disability support workers can assist

• Disability services Australia wide: our NDIS support workers in Australia assist with household tasks such as cooking and cleaning, personal care, healthy habits, and helping participants get out into the community to socialise and engage in enjoyable activities. We also provide travel assistance to appointments, community events and much more.
• Empowering the participant: our NDIS disability support workers empower participants to advocate for themselves, make informed choices and achieve their goals, and we do this by creating a relationship based on trust from day one.
• Lead by example: our disability support workers serve as role models for accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities, inspiring others to follow inclusive practices. Within our own community for example, our Melbourne-based participants have access to Incluso’s weekly Connect & Create Club, which hosts activities like art, music therapy, gardening, movies and plenty more for participants and their support workers. 
• Stay informed: our team constantly up-skills and keeps informed of the latest best practices for disability support in Australia to provide the best possible support to each participant.

We are committed to investing in the education and development of our staff, ensuring they are equipped to deliver inclusive support services for disabled individuals in Australia. 

We understand that it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach; each participant is unique, with their own strengths, goals and support needs. Our disability support workers tailor services to meet these individual requirements.

Looking to find disability support workers in Australia? Get in touch with us

If you would like to learn more about our NDIS support workers in Australia or our weekly Connect & Create Club, get in touch with us by calling 1300 674 401, emailing [email protected] or booking a free consultation here and we would love to discuss how we can best assist you. 

What is Chatty Cafe?

Chatty Cafe Australia is all about bringing people together by creating welcome spaces for conversation and connection. 

Beginning in the UK, Australian founder and Managing Director, Glenys Reid, identified a considerable gap in the market of programs dedicated to tackling social isolation after experiencing it herself in 2017.

How Does Chatty Cafe Work?

The aim of Chatty Cafe Australia is to help connect communities and increase social interactions by getting people chatting in their favourite local neighbourhood social venues at ‘Have a Chat’ tables. 

A Safe & Inclusive Community Space

The motto: everyone is welcome to these safe and inclusive spaces!

The Chatty Cafe Australia initiative runs from several locations such as libraries, cafes, community centres and neighbourhood houses across Melbourne and Australia. Participating venues have a community table where anyone in the community can grab a seat, enjoy a drink or a bite to eat, and have a chat with others. Most ‘Chatty Tables’ are supported by a volunteer or host to make people feel welcome and get the conversation started.

It's a safe and controlled way to step out of your comfort zone, grab a coffee and embark on an exciting journey of meeting new people. Socialising more broadly can really help to build confidence and work towards alleviating social anxiety with regular practice through social meetups in Australia. 

Where to Find Chatty Cafe Locations

Whether you’re looking for places to meet new people in Australia, community connection initiatives, or just a welcoming space for social interaction within community restaurants, Chatty Cafe Australia offers a fantastic setting to explore social cafes in Melbourne and other venues around the country.

With inclusive cafes Australia wide becoming more prevalent, Chatty Cafe Australia is proud to offer a space for individuals from all walks of life to connect. These community cafes and venues provide a warm, welcoming environment that encourages meaningful conversation, reduces feelings of isolation and enhances community spirit.

Get Support to Attend a Chatty Cafe

Your Incluso support worker is happy to accompany you to a Chatty Cafe, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported if you would like to take part in this wonderful initiative.

Find a Chatty Cafe in your area here.

Learn more about the origin of the Chatty Cafe Scheme here.

Art and creativity can hold profound significance for people living with disabilities, offering unique ways to express themselves, reduce stress and develop new skills.

Art therapy programs: enhancing well-being and creativity

Art therapy programs can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. 

Art workshops for people with disabilities Australia wide help to build community connection, opportunity for inclusion and creative expression, which is why Incluso have chosen to spotlight a selection of disability art programs this month!

Adaptive tools and inclusive education make art accessible to everyone, allowing individuals to explore their creativity. Such tools include ergonomic paint brushes, easy-grip crayons/pencils, speech-to-text software which enables artists to create digital art or write stories through voice commands, adaptive scissors, clay and pottery aids like modified rolling pins and even adaptive musical instruments, which all assist creative therapy for disabilities.

Whether it be painting, drawing, acting, film, photography, writing, dance, theatre, digital art or performance, creative activities for disabled adults provide new opportunities for expression. 

Inclusive art programs: encouraging creativity and social inclusion

Art becomes a powerful tool for personal growth, social inclusionand mental health benefits. Embracing diverse artistic expressions helps share your story and creates a more inclusive and understanding society.

Art workshops for people with disabilities in Australia

If you’re interested in supporting artists with disabilities, there are renowned organisations like the National Arts and Disability Center, who support and showcase their work. These inclusive arts organisations Australia wide provide a platform for art by disabled artists to be seen and appreciated.

Incluso Picks – resources for creatives:

Peak Body for Arts and Disability in Victoria
Studios, mentors, programs, awards, scholarships, networking and grants: https://www.artsaccess.com.au/about/about-aav/

Peak Body for Arts and Disability in Australia
Projects, Art Spaces, Opportunities, Events and Resources: https://artsaccessaustralia.org/

Inclusive performing arts programmes

For our Victoria based audience, programmes running in both Frankston and Hampton provide participants of all abilities the opportunity to connect and ignite their creativity through dancing, vocals, drama, filmmaking and art: https://bamarts.org.au/

The National Gallery of Australia’s Quarterly Access to Art Program
‘Access to Art’ is a quarterly program for people with disability and their care partners to enjoy a group tour and creative activities with a focus on major exhibitions and works of art in the Gallery's collection: https://nga.gov.au/learn/for-people-with-access-needs/people-with-disability/

Art therapy and occupational support: how Incluso can help

You can speak with Incluso’s occupational therapists about art therapy for people with disabilities Australia wide, as well as personalised creative therapy for disabilities.

Our support workers are also happy to assist you in your creative expression journey!

Give us a call on 1300 674 401 or email [email protected] to discuss how we can best support your creativity. 

Alternatively, begin your search today by looking up ‘art classes for special needs adults near me’.

Globally, one billion people live with invisible disabilities that are not immediately obvious to the naked eye. 

While some of us experience a disability that is visible, hidden disabilities are not always apparent yet can significantly affect daily life. They can include mental health disorders, chronic pain and disabilities, neurological disorders, learning disabilities, sensory processing issues, autoimmune diseases, respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular conditions and autism spectrum disorder, just to name a few. As diverse as these conditions are, so are individual access needs and the barriers people face in their day-to-day.

People with hidden disabilities often face misunderstanding and need support to fully participate in daily activities. At Incluso, we provide support for people with invisible disabilities in Australia, ensuring everyone has access to the care and resources they need. 

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, and how does it assist those living with an invisible disability? 

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be obvious – and that you may need a helping hand, extra understanding while out and about or more time in shops, at work, on transport or in public spaces. The Invisible Disability Sunflower is now recognised in various settings across Australia, helping create a more disability-inclusive community. 

It comes in many useful forms, such as a physical card that can be worn on a lanyard, a bracelet or a broach, making it easier for people to identify themselves in public if they need additional support from those around them. 

Incluso’s Support Services for Invisible Disabilities 

At Incluso Disability Services, we are dedicated to supporting you in achieving your goals, whether your disability is visible or non-visible. Our team includes experienced disability support workers at Incluso and occupational therapy for disabilities in Melbourne, ensuring you receive personalised and professional assistance tailored to your needs. 

We provide NDIS services for invisible disabilities, helping individuals navigate daily challenges with practical and compassionate support. Whether you need inclusive occupational therapy services, transport assistance, accommodation and Supported Independent Living (SIL), community engagement or general assistance, our team is here to help. 

Get in Touch for Personalised Disability Support 

Contact Incluso for Disability Support, book in a free consultation with our dedicated team today for an obligation-free chat here.

Alternatively, give us a call on 1300 674 401 or write to us at [email protected] to learn more about how we can support you.

Let’s work towards a more inclusive and accessible future.

Handpicked Recommendations for Our Community

If you’re looking for something refreshingly informative for your mid-week podcast fix - The I Can't Stand Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in disability awareness, accessibility and inclusion. 

Hosted by Peta Hooke, a Melbourne/Naarm local and passionate disability advocate, this podcast shares real life disability stories and experiences that challenge stereotypes and promote greater understanding. Every Tuesday, Peta either answers listener-submitted questions about living with a disability or interviews inspiring guests from the disabled community to share their perspectives. 

As someone born with cerebral palsy herself, Peta brings firsthand insight into the realities of navigating life with a disability, addressing both everyday challenges and broader societal issues.

Through engaging conversations, Peta fosters meaningful discussions on topics such as accessibility and inclusion, relationships and self-identity. The podcast seamlessly blends humour with deep, thought-provoking dialogue, making it a valuable resource for people with disabilities, their families, support workers and anyone wanting to learn how to be a better ally to our community.

If educational podcasts on inclusion and accessibility are something that peak your interest, The I Can't Stand Podcast is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re looking for insights into cerebral palsy, disability advocacy, or simply want to listen to stories of disabled individuals in Australia, Peta really does cover it all.

Here are some of our personal favourite episodes to start with:

• Why I Never Leave the House Without Lipstick – Answering a question Peta wishes she’d never been asked.

  Read the transcript here: https://www.icantstandpodcast.com/post/so-what-s-wrong-with-you 

  Listen on Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/why-i-never-leave-the-house-without-lipstick/id1544184497?i=1000504323799 

• Perspectives from a Participant, Support Worker and Founder – Buttons Support Services – A conversation from three different viewpoints.

  Read the transcript here: https://www.icantstandpodcast.com/post/perspectives-from-a-participant-support-worker-and-founder-buttons-support-services

  Listen on Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/perspectives-from-a-participant-support-worker/id1544184497?i=1000599423230

• Relationships, Dating & Love on the Spectrum with Sexologist & Counsellor Jodi Rogers – A discussion on dating with a disability featuring Jodi Rogers from ABC’s Love on the Spectrum.

  Read the transcript here: https://www.icantstandpodcast.com/post/relationships-dating-love-on-the-spectrum-with-sexologist-counsellor-jodi-rodgers 

  Listen on Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/relationships-dating-love-on-the-spectrum-with/id1544184497?i=1000647980070 

You can also follow Peta Hooke on Instagram: @petahooke

Explore more episodes here: The I Can't Stand Podcast

At Incluso Services, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate, easy-to-access NDIS support, as well as valuable resources to inspire and empower our community. 

If you or a loved one need guidance on navigating the NDIS or finding the right support, you can book a free consultation with us here, call us directly on 1300 674 401 or send us an email at [email protected].

The festive season is a time for joy, but for individuals living with disabilities, careful planning ensures celebrations are stress-free and enjoyable. 

Whether you’re an NDIS participant living with disability, a carer or a provider, here’s how to make holiday celebrations inclusive and memorable. 

For Participants & Carers:

🎉 Disabled access for holiday events: Before attending, check if disability parking is available, and ensure venues have ramps, elevators and wheelchair-accessible facilities. Don’t hesitate to ask about accessibility features - your comfort matters. 

🎉 Managing sensory sensitivities during Christmas: Parties can get loud and overwhelming. Look for events offering sensory-friendly holiday spaces like rest zones. If hosting at home, create a quiet area with soft lighting and comforting activities. 

🎉 Hosting disability-friendly gatherings in Australia: Share the load by asking guests to bring a dish or assist with tasks like decorating. This ensures the day is less stressful and more inclusive. 

🎉 Virtual festive celebrations for Australians with disabilities: Large gatherings aren’t for everyone. Host a Teams lunch or video call to connect with loved ones in a relaxed setting. 

🎉 Accessible community Christmas events Australia: Check local councils or community Christmas celebrations for Australians with disabilities. These events often prioritise inclusivity and accessibility. 

For Providers:

🔧 How to host accessible holiday events: Ensure your event is accessible to all. Offer disability parking, ramps, wide doorways and accessible restrooms. Clear signage and seating arrangements tailored for mobility support make a big difference. 

🔧 Inclusive event planning tips for NDIS providers: Use easy-read invitations and detailed schedules to clarify expectations and reduce stress for attendees. These efforts make celebrations more welcoming. 

🔧 Sensory-friendly Christmas ideas for people with disabilities: Set up calm rest zones at your Christmas or New Years Eve party with soft seating and quiet activities for attendees prone to sensory overload. 

🔧 Inclusive Christmas/New Year events: Celebrate diversity by considering mobility support, dietary needs and clear communication. A welcoming atmosphere creates unforgettable experiences for all. 

Empowering individuals with disabilities to fully participate in life’s celebrations is at the core of everything we do at Incluso Services. 

With these NDIS-friendly holiday tips, we can make the festive season inclusive, joyful and unforgettable for everyone and their unique needs. 

Looking for personalised support? 

Incluso Services can help you and your family navigate the festive season and beyond. 

Book a discovery call with our specialised concierge support team to learn how we can best support you!