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A social story about spitting

A social story about spitting: spit stays in my mouth or goes in the sink. When I feel upset, I can squeeze my hands, say I am mad, or walk away.

Social StoriesUpdated
3 min read

Spit belongs in my mouth, a tissue, or the sink. When I feel mad or silly, I choose another way to show it.

The spitting story

Carol Gray's 10.2 criteria favor describing what people do and why, rather than listing what not to do (Social Stories 10.2 Criteria, accessed November 10, 2026). These lines are first person.

Where Spit Goes

Everyone has spit in their mouth. It helps us chew and swallow.

When I brush my teeth, I spit in the sink. That is the right place.

If I need to cough or sneeze, I use a tissue or my elbow.

Spitting on people or the floor spreads germs and makes others feel upset.

Sometimes I feel angry. I can squeeze my hands, stomp my feet, or say "I am mad."

Sometimes I feel silly. I can make a funny face or a noise instead.

When I keep spit in the right places, people feel safe near me.

Why the germ line is there

KidsHealth explains that cold viruses travel in droplets from coughs and sneezes and on things we touch (Common Cold, accessed November 10, 2026). One simple sentence about germs gives a reason a child can understand without shame.

Pair the story with a replacement

Pick one thing to do instead and practice it when calm:

  • a squeeze ball in the pocket;
  • a "mad" word or sign;
  • three big breaths out through the mouth into the air, not at anyone.

Praise the replacement every time you see it, even late.

After it happens

Stay calm and brief. Hand over a tissue to clean up, say "Spit goes in the sink," and move on. Read the story again later in the day, not right after.

Free stories come by email from the Social Stories list.

FAQ

Is spitting a phase?

Many young children try it once they notice the reaction it gets. A calm, boring response and a clear replacement often help.

What if my child spits when overwhelmed?

Add a line about a break space and practice going there. Talk with your pediatrician or therapist if spitting happens often or alongside other big changes.

Should there be a consequence?

Cleaning up with a tissue is a natural, low-key consequence. Avoid big reactions that turn spitting into a game.

Behind this guide

Sources & further reading

  1. Social Stories 10.2 Criteria (Carol Gray, PDF). Accessed November 10, 2026., Carol Gray Social Stories
  2. Common Cold (Nemours KidsHealth). Accessed November 10, 2026., Nemours KidsHealth