Hi, it’s me!
The child adds their name and photo, then learns that looking at a friend’s eyes to start talking or playing is called eye contact.
Free printable social story
Eye Contact Social Story for Kids
- Look at a friend to start playing
- Our eyes show what we think about
- Eye contact shows I’m listening
- Friends feel heard
This free 7-page printable story helps a child understand what eye contact is, and how it shows friends they want to talk, play and listen.
Your child adds their own name and photo on the first and last page, so the story is about them.
Get the free story
Enter your name and email. The download page opens right away.
Free. No payment needed.
What is inside the free PDF
Simple words and friendly pictures of everyday moments with friends and grown-ups.
What eyes tell others
Our eyes show what we are thinking about, so friends know when we want to keep playing.
Listening with my eyes
Eye contact shows people we are paying attention, so they know we are listening.
Now I know!
The child’s photo again, proud of what they learned.
How to use it
- First
Add your child’s photo
Print the story and stick a photo of your child on the first and last page, so it is their story.
- Then
Play “what am I looking at?”
Look at something in the room and let your child guess what you are thinking about. Then swap.
- Next
Practise in short, calm moments
Try a quick look during a favourite game. A glance near the eyes is a great start.
Questions parents ask
What is this social story about?
It is a 7-page story that helps children with autism understand eye contact and why it helps with friends.
Who can use it?
Parents, teachers and therapists working on conversation and social skills with a child.
Can I print it?
Yes. The story is a printable PDF that works at home, in the classroom or in therapy.
What if eye contact is hard for my child?
That is common. Go slowly, keep practice short and calm, and celebrate small glances.
How long does it take to read?
Just a few minutes, so it is easy to read again whenever it is needed.
Is it free?
Yes. AutismWorks gives this story free to families and teachers.
Made by Tyler and his dad, Jody
Tyler McNamer is an autistic adult and the author of two books about growing up with autism, Population ONE and Becoming ONE. With his dad, Jody, he makes these free social stories so parents and teachers have simple words for hard moments.
190,000+books sold35,000+story downloads
Meet Tyler →