What is a Sound Story?

A sound story is a storytelling experience that integrates just sounds, either vocal, instrumental, or environmental to bring the narrative to life. It can be especially engaging for neurodivergent learners, those with sensory processing differences, or anyone who benefits from multi-sensory learning.

Preparation Needed Prior To Delivering a Sound Story

1. Choose or Create a Story

• Select a simple, engaging story with clear sensory elements (e.g., weather, animals, a journey). Our Directory of Sound Stories are at the end of this post.
• If writing your own, use rhythmic, repetitive phrases to enhance engagement.

2. Identify Key Sound Cues

• Go through the story and pinpoint moments that would benefit from sound effects.
• Examples:
  • Rain → light tapping
  • Thunder → deep drum or hum
  • Wind → soft blowing
  • Animal noises → vocal imitations or simple instruments

3. Gather Sound-Making Materials

• Your Voice: Humming, whispering, clapping, stomping, or changing pitch.
• Hands & Body: Clapping, snapping, patting thighs, rubbing hands together.
• Instruments & Objects:
  • Drums (for thunder, footsteps)
  • Maracas/Rice in a Jar (for rain)
  • Paper (crinkled for fire or leaves)
  • Wind chimes (for magical or soft effects)

4. Set Up the Space

• Choose a quiet, low-distraction area to maintain focus.
• Arrange seating in a circle or semi-circle to encourage participation.
• Dim lights or add visual elements (e.g., LED candles, colored scarves) to enhance immersion.

---

Delivering an Inclusive Sound Story

1. Introduce the Story & Sounds

• Give a short, exciting introduction:
  “Today, we’re going on an adventure where the sounds help tell the story!”
• Demonstrate a few key sounds and invite the group to try them.

2. Engage the Audience

• Use Expressive Storytelling:
  • Vary your tone, speed, and volume to create atmosphere.
  • Whisper for mystery, slow down for suspense, speed up for excitement.
• Encourage Participation:
  • Assign simple sound roles to individuals or small groups.
  • Example:
    • “When I say ‘rain,’ let’s all tap our fingers softly.”
    • “When the thunder rumbles, let’s pat our legs together!”
• Repeat Key Sounds & Actions:
  • Build anticipation by bringing back familiar sounds throughout the story.

3. Adapt to the Group’s Needs

• If someone prefers not to participate vocally, offer a sensory-friendly option (e.g., holding a rainstick or using visuals).
• If a participant seems overwhelmed, provide a calm space or allow quiet engagement.

4. Conclude with Reflection

• Bring the sounds to a gentle stop.
• Discuss the experience:
  • “What was your favourite sound?”
  • “How did the thunder feel?”
  • “Can we make our own rainstorm together?”
• Reinforce learning by repeating key words or sounds in a fun, interactive way.

---

Sound Story Examples

“The rain falls down with a pitter-pat…” (light finger tapping)
“Drip-drop on my hat…” (soft tapping on the head)
“Boom, boom! Goes the thunder loud!” (pat thighs or drum sound)
“A soft wind whispers, passing by…” (gentle blowing sound)

End with a calm transition, such as a humming tune or a gentle chime to represent the sun coming out.

Directory of Our Free Sound Stories

As well as the narrative each of these free-to-use sound stories includes a soundboard that contains all sounds you need. This means there is very little prep for you to do.

Inclusiveteach.com Auditory Sensory Sound Stories

Tips for Success

✔ Keep it simple – Too many sounds at once can be overwhelming.
✔ Be expressive – Your enthusiasm will encourage engagement.
✔ Use repetition – It builds confidence and familiarity.
✔ Allow flexibility – Participants may prefer to listen rather than make sounds.
✔ Make it multi-sensory – Add movement, visuals, or tactile elements for a richer experience.