Free Printable No Spitting Social Story – A free printable no spitting social story is a short, simple narrative that helps children understand why spitting on people or surfaces is not okay, how it affects others, and what they can do instead. These tools are especially useful for autistic children, kids with ADHD, developmental differences, or anyone learning social and emotional skills.
Parents, teachers, and therapists in the United States often search for a free printable no spitting social story when a child spits when frustrated, seeking attention, or testing boundaries. Social stories give clear, calm information without shame and pair well with positive behavior supports.
What Is a Social Story?
Social Stories were developed by Carol Gray in the early 1990s. They use a structured format with mostly descriptive and perspective sentences and limited coaching language. The goal is to share accurate information about a situation so the child can understand expectations and feel more prepared.
A good no spitting social story typically covers:
- What spitting is
- Why it spreads germs or feels disrespectful to others
- How other people may feel (upset, uncomfortable, or want space)
- Appropriate places or ways to manage saliva if needed (for example, a tissue or sink)
- Positive alternatives such as using words, taking a break, or asking for help
Always review any story for accuracy, positive tone, and fit for the individual child before using it.
Why a Free Printable No Spitting Social Story Helps?
Spitting can be a communication attempt or a response to overwhelm. A free printable version lets families and educators print, laminate, and review the story regularly at home or school. Consistent, calm exposure often works better than repeated verbal corrections alone.
Many free options exist as text-only stories, illustrated PDFs, or templates you can customize with photos of the child.
Where to Find Legitimate Free Printable Resources?
Start with trusted collections rather than random downloads. One helpful roundup of free social stories about spitting is available from And Next Comes L. It lists several options, including text-only stories and links that may require a free Teachers Pay Teachers account for download.
View the free social stories for spitting collection
Two short text-only social stories focused on spitting appear on the Happy Learners site. These are simple, printable examples that explain why intentional spitting is unpleasant and can spread illness.
Read the Happy Learners spitting social stories
For the original approach and guidelines, visit Carol Gray’s official Social Stories site.
Learn about Social Stories from Carol Gray
If none of the ready-made stories fit perfectly, free blank templates make it easy to write a personalized version. And Next Comes L offers free templates for Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, Canva, and Google Slides.
Download free social story templates
These four sources prioritize free or freely accessible materials from established education and autism-support sites. Avoid sites that require payment or claim free resources that turn out to be paid.
Free Printable No Spitting Social Story
Tips for Using a No Spitting Social Story Successfully
Read the story when the child is calm, not right after an incident. Keep sessions short and positive. Pair the story with clear, consistent expectations and replacement skills such as “I need a break” or using a tissue.
Customize language and pictures to the child’s age, understanding level, and real situations. Include when spitting is acceptable (brushing teeth, for example) so the message stays accurate. Track progress and adjust the story as skills improve.
In U.S. schools and homes, these stories often support IEP or behavior goals and work alongside visual supports, sensory tools, and adult modeling.
Brief FAQ
Is a free printable no spitting social story enough on its own?
No. It works best as one part of a broader approach that includes teaching replacement behaviors, addressing underlying needs (sensory, communication, or emotional), and consistent adult responses.
Can I change the wording?
Yes. Personalization usually improves results. Follow Carol Gray’s guidelines for sentence types and ratios when possible.
Are these stories only for autistic children?
No. Many children benefit from clear, visual explanations of social expectations.
How often should we read it?
Daily or several times a week at first, then as needed for reminders.