1. When Tucker Turtle Gets Too Excited, He Takes Time to Tuck and Think!
This shows an example of a social story, Tucker the Turtle Takes Time to Tuck and Think, that can be used to teach the turtle technique.
This story can also be placed in the reading area of the classroom so children can practice the technique!
Tell participants that this social story can be downloaded from the CSEFEL web site if they do not have a copy in their classroom.
Adapted by Team Tennessee (2013) from: Tucker Turtle Takes Time to Tuck and Think: A scripted story to assist with teaching the “Turtle Technique” By Rochelle Lentini March 2005
Created using pictures from Microsoft Clipart® and Webster-Stratton, C. (1991). The teachers and children videotape series: Dina dinosaur school. Seattle, WA: The Incredible Years.

2. Tucker Turtle is a terrific turtle
Tucker Turtle is a terrific turtle. He likes to play with his friends at Wet Lake School.
Read story.

3. But sometimes Tucker gets really excited about activities at school.

4. When Tucker got really excited, he would not wait his turn instead he yelled out to the teacher or his friends, he would run around the classroom and accidently bump into his friends or other things. His friends and his teacher would get upset when he didn’t wait his turn, yelled out, and accidently bump into them.
I WANT TO DO IT!! NOW!
MY TURN!

5. I am so excited to do that!
Tucker now knows a new way to “think like a turtle” when he really gets excited.
I am so excited to do that!
Step 1

6. He can stop and quiet his voice and slow his feet.

7. He can tuck inside his shell and take 3 deep breaths to calm down.

8. Tucker can then think of a solution or a better way to show others he is excited.
Step 4

9. Tucker’s friends and teacher are happy when he calms down, uses his inside voice, waits his turn and keeps his body in in control. Friends also like it when Tucker has a teacher help him be calm when he is excited.

10. The End!