Make Travel Easier with a Personalized Social Story
Parents and caregivers can use the social story below to create a personalized version for your child or loved one. Add specific details (names, dates, what the port will look like, who will be there to help) and include pictures you can find online that match your exact trip.
Need help planning a smoother, more accessible trip? Contact me directly for personalized support.
Social Story: Boarding a Ship
My name is: ______________________
Today I am going to: Board a ship
1. What is boarding a ship?
Boarding a ship means I will go from the dock (the place next to the water) onto the ship so I can travel or go on a cruise.
2. Why do people board ships?
People board ships to go on a trip, visit new places, have fun, or travel to a different location.
3. What I can expect (step-by-step)
I arrive at the port. I may see water, big ships, signs, and many people.
I wait in line. Waiting can take time. I can stand with my group and follow the signs.
I show my ticket or boarding pass. An adult may help me. Staff may look at my information.
I may go through a security check. I might walk through a scanner. My bag might be checked.
I follow directions to the boarding area. I can listen to announcements and follow staff instructions.
I walk onto the ship. I may use a ramp or a walkway called a gangway. I can walk slowly and hold a railing if I want.
A staff member may greet me. They may say hello and tell me where to go next.
I find my room. I can follow signs, ask for help, or stay with my adult/group.
4. What I might see, hear, or feel
I might see: luggage, uniforms, signs, flashing lights, life jackets, and large hallways.
I might hear: announcements, people talking, rolling suitcases, ship horns.
I might feel: excitement, nervousness, crowded spaces, different smells, and cool wind near the water.
5. Helpful things I can do
I can stay close to my adult or group.
I can hold a hand, hold a strap, or keep one hand on my bag.
I can take deep breaths if I feel nervous.
I can use quiet activities while waiting (reading, a game, music with headphones).
I can ask for a break or a quiet spot if I need one.
6. If something changes
Sometimes plans change. Lines can be longer, or we may need to wait before boarding.
If plans change, I can:
Listen to the adult or staff member helping me.
Stay calm and take slow breaths.
Remember: waiting is temporary, and I will board when it is my turn.
7. Safety rules
I will walk (not run) near the water and on the ramp.
I will hold the railing if the ramp is steep or moving.
I will stay with my adult/group at all times.
I will follow staff instructions.
8. My boarding plan
When I feel worried, I can: _____________________________________________
My calming tools are: _________________________________________________
My helper is: __________________________________________________________
9. My reminder
Boarding a ship is a series of small steps. I can take my time, follow directions, and ask for help. When I board the ship, I am getting ready for my trip.
