My story
The child adds their own name and photo, then sees what happens when excitement brings them too close to a friend.
Free printable social story
Personal Space Social Story for Kids
- Everyone has a personal bubble
- Bubbles come in different sizes
- Keep one arm’s length
- Step back when asked
This free 8-page printable story helps a child understand that everyone has a personal bubble, and how to give friends the space they need.
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, friendly pictures of a personal bubble, and a page for the child’s own photo.
Personal bubbles
Everyone has a bubble of space around them, and some bubbles are bigger than others. That’s okay!
One arm’s length
A safe distance to keep from friends before knowing how big their bubble is.
Space, please
When a friend asks for space, step back. Then everyone feels comfortable and the play goes on.
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
Show one arm’s length
Stretch out an arm together to see how far one arm’s length is from a friend.
- Next
Practise “Space, please”
Take turns saying “Space, please” and stepping back, just like the friends in the story.
Questions parents ask
What is this social story about?
It is an 8-page story that teaches children with autism how to manage personal space with friends.
Who can use it?
Parents, teachers and therapists working on social boundaries with a child.
Can I print it?
Yes. The story is a printable PDF that works at home, in the classroom or in therapy.
Why is personal space important?
Understanding personal space helps children build respectful friendships and avoid misunderstandings.
How long does it take to read?
Less than 10 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 →