Understanding the Social Battery - Kids and Teens
The Social Battery Workbook is a practical, neuro-affirming resource designed to help children and teens understand their social energy, recognise early signs of overload, and develop self-advocacy and regulation skills.
Many students, particularly those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities—use significant energy navigating social expectations at school. When that energy runs low, behaviour is often misunderstood. This workbook shifts the focus from behaviour management to nervous system awareness and proactive support.
What This Resource Covers
What a social battery is and how it works
How to recognise early warning signs of social fatigue
Common times when social energy is most likely to drain
Why some students’ batteries drain faster than others
Practical strategies to recharge and protect social energy
Self-advocacy language students can use confidently
What’s Included
✔ Student-friendly explanations
✔ Visual social battery scales
✔ Tick-and-reflect activities
✔ Cut-and-paste sorting tasks (drainers vs chargers)
✔ A dedicated Teacher & Parent Guide
✔ A teen-specific version with age-appropriate language
✔ Ready-to-print PDF (calm, neutral design – school friendly)
Who This Resource Is For
Primary and secondary teachers
Wellbeing and learning support staff
Parents and carers
Students with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory differences
Any child or teen who experiences social overwhelm
Perfect For
Classrooms and wellbeing programs
Individual check-ins or small groups
IEPs, SSPs, and regulation plans
Home–school collaboration
Teaching self-advocacy and emotional awareness
This workbook supports students to understand their needs, communicate them clearly, and recharge before overwhelm occurs, building confidence, regulation, and emotional safety at school.







