What is Social Stencil?

Social Stencil is an Australian neuroaffirming social-emotional curriculum that helps young people understand their own and others’ social, emotional, learning, and communication styles.

This program has been growing since 2008, written by Psychologist Dr Connie Buckingham (PhD), built on psychological theory, neuroaffirming principles, engaging pedagogy and on-going research together with the University of Melbourne.

Australian advocates in neurodiversity affirming practice have also brought a lived experience lens to Social Stencil. This has resulted in a comprehensive, creative program that focuses on agency, respecting others, and understanding the social world as experienced by all of us.

Social Stencil was initially a 12-week whole class program. Social Stencil is now a suite of resources for whole class delivery (Tier 1), small group delivery (Tier 2) or one-to-one delivery (Tier 3). This includes a program for prep - year 2 (Junior Social Stencil) and year 3 - 7 (Original Social Stencil).

Social Stencil can be delivered by allied health clinicians (such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, counsellors), educators, education support staff and therapy assistants.

If you're new to Social Stencil, check out our Free Resource Share Portal or Social Stencil Instagram. In both locations you’ll find free community resources that reflect the intention of the Social Stencil program.

Alternatively, reach out to program author Dr Connie Buckingham (PhD) for a chat. Email connie@socialstencil.com to book a chat.

Social Stencil can be delivered as part of your schools curriculum

Social Stencil is a social emotional neuroaffirming curriculum that aligns with the Australian Curriculum (Version 9). The Social Stencil lesson plans specifically address aspects of achievement standards in the Personal and Social Capabilities learning area across all four elements; self awareness, self-management, social awareness and social management. One specific example of this link is with Social Stencil Lesson 12 which introduces students to a problem-solving strategy which links to the sub-element of decision making under social management.

In addition, the Social Stencil curriculum also complements International Baccalaurete (IB) Education. When reflecting on the attributes of the IB Learner Profile, many of the Social Stencil lesson plans support development in these areas such as developing critical thinking, showing empathy, compassion and respect and thoughtfully reflecting on our own ideas and experiences. The Social Stencil curriculum aligning with IB education also honours curiosity, voice and the contribution of students.

Here is a screenshot of the Social Stencil Original Portal.

Click here to view a dynamic version of the portal that you can expand to see more.