Why Going to the Store Matters
Going to the store is an everyday activity that builds essential independence skills. For many NDIS participants, shopping can feel overwhelming. Crowded aisles, social interactions, or managing money may cause stress. Using a social story can help reduce anxiety and support adults to shop with confidence.
The Going to the Store Social Story from our Adult Resource page breaks this process into clear, manageable steps. It helps participants feel prepared, safe, and proud of their achievements.
What is a Social Story?
A social story is a tool that explains everyday activities in simple steps. It provides structure and reassurance by showing what to expect. For adults, social stories can be especially helpful in building confidence for tasks like shopping, travelling, or attending appointments.
When paired with supports such as Behaviour Therapy or Psychology, social stories empower NDIS participants to practice real-world skills and achieve greater independence.
Step-by-Step: Going to the Store
The “Going to the Store” social story highlights each stage of the shopping journey:
Getting Ready
Putting on a clean outfit and writing a shopping list.
Planning the Trip
Bringing money, preparing to travel safely, and heading to the store.
Shopping with Confidence
Using a basket or trolley, finding items, and staying calm.
Managing Feelings
Taking deep breaths or asking staff for help if feeling nervous.
Paying and Interacting
Greeting the cashier, paying for items, and saying thank you.
Celebrating Success
Feeling proud of completing the task independently.
Linking Social Stories to NDIS Goals
The NDIS supports participants to build life skills and independence. Shopping is an excellent example of a skill that links to NDIS goals, such as:
- Increased independence – shopping without constant support.
- Improved social participation – greeting and interacting with store staff.
- Daily living skills – planning, budgeting, and completing a task from start to finish.
Social stories, combined with therapeutic support, provide a pathway to success.
How Psychology Can Help
For many adults, shopping is not just about buying items—it can be about managing emotions. Anxiety, sensory overload, or low confidence can make the store challenging.
Psychology services can help participants understand their feelings and develop coping strategies. Psychologists may work on:
- Reducing anxiety in busy environments.
- Building confidence in social interactions.
- Practicing mindfulness and emotional regulation.
How Behaviour Therapy Supports Independence
Behaviour Therapy is another valuable service for adults learning to shop independently. Behaviour support practitioners focus on practical strategies to develop life skills and positive routines. Examples include:
- Role-playing shopping trips before going in person.
- Using checklists or visuals for planning.
- Reinforcing independence with positive feedback.
Behaviour Therapy makes everyday activities achievable and rewarding.
When Cognitive Assessments Are Helpful
Some adults may benefit from Cognitive Assessments to better understand their strengths and support needs. These assessments can:
- Identify barriers to independence.
- Highlight areas where extra support is needed.
- Help coordinators match NDIS goals with suitable therapies.
By combining assessments with social stories, participants gain personalised strategies for success.
Trusted External Resources
These resources offer further guidance for participants and coordinators.
FAQs About Going to the Store Social Story
Who can benefit from a going to the store social story?
A: Adults with disabilities, NDIS participants, and anyone wanting to build independence and confidence in daily living skills.
How do I use the social story with participants?
A: Read it together before a trip, practice at home, and encourage reflection afterwards.
Can this support be funded by the NDIS?
A: Yes. Social stories may be used alongside funded services like Psychology, Behaviour Therapy, and Cognitive Assessments.
Take the Next Step
Going to the store is more than just shopping—it’s an opportunity for independence, growth, and confidence.
The Going to the Store Social Story makes this journey achievable and empowering. If you or someone you support would benefit from personalised strategies, book an appointment with Freedom Therapy Services today.
Our Psychology, Behaviour Therapy, and Cognitive Assessment services are here to help NDIS participants reach their goals.
