AI Tools for Special Educators: Create Personalized Social Stories using Gemini Storybook

Explore the potential of artificial intelligence in special education! A step by step guide on how to use Google Gemini's Storybook feature and empower special educators to create highly personalized social stories. We'll walk through the creation of a story for a Grade 2 student, featuring his favorite 'Star Wars' character 'Baby Yoda or Grogu', to help him understand the importance of taking turns in our life. 

A personalized social story for a child in Grade 2 on 'turn-taking'. Learn how to harness AI to craft engaging, age appropriate and relevant stories that support social-emotional growth and address specific behavioral needs in your classroom. 

This video is a must-watch for special educators looking to create personalized, impactful, social stories that resonate with your students.

Notes 

Good Websites for Social Stories:
Picture Books: https://www.booksie.org/

Audio Books: https://librivox.org/

Picture Books: https://autismlittlelearners.com/social-stories-for-school/

Audio Video Presentations: YouTube 

Dear Educators, 
- To endless possibilities: This is just one way of utilizing the storybook feature, put on your 'Creative Hat' and explore different ways to use it! We would enjoy watching your ideas in action too.  
- Figure out a way to involve your student in the process of creating the story book (it could be in the form of creating the artwork or character for the story, deciding the theme or moral for the story, or style of art for the story book).  
- Don't expect your student to fall in line after 1 or 2 renditions of the personalized social story generated by you. Bringing about behavioral change is a slow and intuitive process. Be patient with your student or kid. Top it up with other activities. Model the desired behavior regularly too.   
- Please overlook my screen recorders struggle to capture my screen without shivering!  

Dear Google, I have the following suggestions for #gemini #storybook #feature (since it is in its experimental stage!):
1. Wouldn't it be better if the attribution under the title of the storybook says, "Created by ABC using Gemini Storybook"?   
2. Please figure out a way to credit or acknowledge and quote sources used by the AI model to generate the story book (similar to the manner in which your AI powered search engine, now, links or quotes sources).    
3. Provide us with an option to download the digital version of the story book as a .mp4 file. 
4. When we save the file as a PDF instead of printing it, ensure the illustrations corresponding to the write-ups (lines from the story) are on the same page (as it appears in the digital/online version of the storybook).  

Credits|Sources: 
- Google Gemini: Storybook Keyword or Feature or Gemstone 
- Images: https://www.aiimagegenerator.org
- Pictures: Canva
- BGM: www.soundful.com 

Please Note (as of 05.09.2025): 
- Gemini's Storybook Feature, which is in its experimental stage, attributes the prompt writer as the author of the story book generated by it. As someone, who believes in the power of words, our heart goes out to original creators, writers and illustrators on whose ideas, style and artwork the generated output is based upon (which would have been a part of the data set used train the AI model). We are hopeful, as we move forward in time, Google will figure out a way to credit or acknowledge and quote sources used by the AI model to generate the story book. So that we can use this cool feature in a transparent and credible manner. 
- The length of the illustrated storybook created by Gemini is 10 pages.   

With Hope.

Ghoomketu (2020)

 गुदगुदी ! (Tickle)

Reflection
"Sometimes you find a new home,
Sometimes you find the way back home,
Sometimes you go around,
To end up in the same place,
But, the journey, the experience,
Is never in vain."  --- #PoeticWithHope 

Movie Details
Name and Year: Ghoomketu and 2020
Director and Writer: Pushpendra Nath Mishra 
Producers: Anurag Kashyap, Vikas Bahl and Sony Pictures Networks Productions
Music: Zubin Balaporia (Score) and Sneha Khanwalkar & Jasleen Royal (Songs)
Cinematographer: Satya Rai Nagpaul
Editors: Pushpendra Nath Misra and Kratika Adhikari 
Genres: Comedy & Drama 
Country: India    
Language: Hindi 

Movie Plot
The story of an aspiring writer from a UP village called Mahona. 

Movie Trailer

(Movie and Trailer Credits: Original creators and artists for creating Ghoomketu!)

Post Sources
Movie Poster: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ghoomketu_poster.jpg
Movie Details and Plot: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ghoomketu_poster.jpg
Movie Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioNqxs7-UWU

With Hope.

A Special Educator's Quick Guide to Reinforcement (Teaching Strategy)

Stickers and Beyond: Reinforcement Strategies that Actually Work for Diverse Learners!

 

 

Reinforcement Strategy: Actions taken while working with a child to make a desired behaviour more likely to occur in the future or actions taken while working with a child to facilitate or increase the occurence of a desired behaviour.

+ Positive Reinforcement: Adding something pleasant or desirable (examples: toy, food, attention …) to make a desired behavior more likely to occur.

+ Negative Reinforcement: Taking something unpleasant or undesired away (examples: noise, distractions …) to make a desired behavior more likely to occur.

Reinforcer: Incentive (either a reward or the removal of something undesired) that is given to a child after they display a desired/appropriate behavior (or used while working with a child to materialize a desired behavior). 

Examples/Types of Reinforcers:

A. Tangible - Tokens, stickers, posters, noise cancelling headphones, prize from a prize box, snack or favorite food item (if appropriate), coloring page, books.

B. Activity-Based - Extra time on computer, silent reading time, partner reading, allowed to be a leader, given a classroom job, assisting secretary or teacher.

C. Social - Tell a joke, lunch with teacher, positive phone call home, game with a friend, being a peer model for a younger student.

D. Intangible - Verbal praise, smiles, thumbs-up, giving eye contact, positive comments written on work.

Source: Reinforcement Strategies (National Center on Intensive Intervention, 2016)

Acknowledgements: 

+ God (our heavenly Father) 

+ Family 

+ Friends 

+ Professors and Mentors (Anamika Ma'am, Swati Ma'am, Pubali Ma'am, Sudeep Sir, Jha Sir, Brij Ma'am and Pushpa Ma'am). 

With Hope.  

Universal Braille Kit Instruction Manual - Worth Trust

                                  

An instruction manual, which briefly describes the usage of various assistive tools and devices used by children with visual impairment, prepared by Worth Trust. The instruction manual is part of their Universal Braille Kit and covers assistive tools like Vasantha Braille Cube, Natesan Braille Block, Braille Slate & Stylus, Alphabet Block, Standard Abacus, Geometry Set & Drawing Tool, and Taylor Frame with Types.   

A resource kit worth having for educators & parents working with children with visual impairment in special and inclusive schools. 

To download The Universal Braille Kit Instruction Manual from Worth Trust in English and Hindi, please click on the following links: 

1. The Universal Braille Kit Instruction Manual - Worth Trust (Scanned English Version)

2. The Universal Braille Kit Instruction Manual - Worth Trust (Scanned Hindi Version)

Useful videos for your reference:  
I. Components of the Universal Braille Kit + Tactile Dominoes Set from Worth Trust

A sneak peak into the components of the Universal Braille Kit designed and produced by Worth Trust (Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India)
Apart from the Universal Braille Kit, the video also shows you a tactile Dominoes Set (also known as Dominoes Double Six) from Worth Trust. 

II. Lesson 01: Taylor's Frame - Representing Numbers 0 to 9 

Introduction to Taylor Frame + Representing Numbers 0 to 9 

III. Lesson 02:  Taylor's Frame - Type A (Mathematical Operators, . & = ) and Type B (Variables & Brackets) 

In this video you will learn about: 
A. Representing Mathematical Operators (+, -, × & ÷), Decimal Point (.) and Equal To (=) Sign using Type A on the Taylor's Frame. 
B. Representing Variables (A, B, C, D, X, Y & Z), Occasional Bit, Different Types of Brackets (( ) { } [ ]), Index Sign or Indicator (Power/Exponent) and Radical Sign (√) using Type B on the Taylor's Frame. 

IV. How to prepare Tactile Enlarged Models of Type A (Arithmetic Type) & Type B (Algebraic Type) 

V. Taylor’s Frame – Creating an Octagonal Shaped Design (Tactile Practise Frame for Beginners)

VI. How to write an Algebraic Expression on a Taylor's Frame

VII. Creating a Tactile Number Line on a Taylor's Frame 

VIII.  Tactile TLM - Understanding Quadrilaterals on Taylor's Frame 

Sources/Credits: 
+ Universal Braille Kit: Purchased from Worth Trust, Chennai, India. 
+ NCERT 

Acknowledgements: 
+ I would like to thank N. K. Jha Sir (Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education) for teaching me how to use the Taylor’s Frame.
+ I would like to thank SAKSHAM (Principal ma’am, teachers and students) for inspiring me with their ideas and dedication.
+ I would like to thank my Professors: Swati ma’am, Sudeep sir, Pubali ma’am and Jha sir (Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education) for their insights and guidance.

With Hope. 

ATM: Er Rak Error | ATM เออรัก เออเร่อ (2012)

           Are you allowed to date your colleague? 

Reflection
What if you fall in love with your colleague at work and your office policy prohibits you from doing so? Would you quit or ask her to quit to protect your bond? 
Unfolding a cute, funny and romantic competition.  

Movie Details
Name and Year: ATM: Er Rak Error | ATM เออรัก เออเร่อ and (2012)
Director: Mez Tharatorn
Producers: Jira Maligool, Chenchonnee Soonthornsaratul, Suvimon Techasupinun and Vanridee Pongsittisak
Writers: Aummaraporn Phandintong and Mez Tharatorn   
Music: Vichaya Vatanasapt
Editor: Thammarat Sumetsupachok
Genres: Rom-Com
Country: Thailand  
Language: Thai 

Movie Plot
Two enamored employees in a bank with no fraternization policy must recover their company's lost money while trying to keep their relationship a secret.

Movie Trailer

(Movie and Trailer Credits: Original creators and artists for creating ATM: Er Rak Error)

Post Sources
Movie Poster: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:ATM-_Er_Rak_Error_poster.jpg
Movie Details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ATM:_Er_Rak_Error
Movie Plot: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2191394/   
Movie Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-JXLx-ygvM

With Hope.

How to Prepare an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)? | Basic IEP Format and Guidelines (DoE, Delhi)

Individualised Education Plan (IEP) - It should not be 'just a document'. It should be 'a living document'!   

A simple and comprehensive video tutorial on how to prepare an IEP (Individualised Education Plan). It is based on the format and guidelines published by Directorate of Education (DoE, Delhi) & my experience of working as a special educator under the guidance of prolific educators at different mission oriented special and inclusive schools. 

I. To download the Basic IEP (Individualised Eduaction Plan) Format I (including the guidelines) published by the Department of Education (Govt. of Delhi), please click on the following links: 

1. Department of Education (Government of Delhi) Revised IEP Format and Guidelines (2022).

2. Department of Education (Government of Delhi) Revised IEP Format 2022 (as a PDF file).

3. Department of Education (Government of Delhi) Revised IEP Format 2022 (as an ODT file). 

4. Department of Education (Government of Delhi) Old IEP Format (as a PDF file).

II. To download the e-books the NCERT Syllabus and Learning Outcomes for Elementary and Secondary Stage, please click on the following links:

1. NCERT: Syllabus for Elementary Stage

2. NCERT: Learning Outcomes for Elementary Stage

3. NCERT: Syllabus for Secondary Stage

4. NCERT: Learning Outcomes for Secondary Stage
 
Acknowledgements: 
All of you have played an important role in my journey. I am grateful for everything I have learned from each one of you. This video wouldn’t have been possible without your priceless insights and guidance. Thank you for being patient with me. Please forgive me if I've caused you any pain. 
+ The everlasting Grace of God
+ Family
+ Friends
+ My Teachers, Students, Mentors | Professors and Fellow Educators | Colleagues from St. Paul’s School, IILM, Teach for India, Student Competetions, HCL, Opportunity Desk, Ufaber, ScrapLabs, CONCOR, Global Peace Chain, EVE, University of Hyderabad, Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education, Blind Relief Association, Green Field School, SAKSHAM, and The British School
+ Kivespervibo Channel Outro (Exit Sequence) Designed By: A&ACherries | Alegniv_Creations
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJaOv3c0_5GyVT-0AseIorQ
+ Background Music: Created on Soundful using AI Music Editor
https://soundful.com/

Sources/Credits 
- Team of Special Educators, Resource Persons and Teachers who worked on creating the basic IEP format and guidelines
- Directorate of Education (DoE), Inclusive Education Branch, Government of Delhi
- Revised Format and Instructions for Developing IEP - Annexure I to III [Directorate of Education (Delhi), May, 2022]
- NCERT 

With Hope.

Beautiful Accident | 美好的意外 (2017)

Neither a Man nor a Woman is an Island!  

Reflection
Wise souls confess, "Everything happens for a reason."
But, how can an accident be beautiful?
How can pain ever feel good?
I invite you to watch 'Beautiful Accident', a sweet and heartwarming tale, to see how it works in favour of us at times.

Movie Details
Name and Year: Beautiful Accident | 美好的意外 and 2017  
Director: Ho Wi Ding
Producers: Wang Zhonglei and Chen Kun
Writers|Screenplay: Ha Zhichao and Zhou Jialin   
Music: Robin Coudert
Cinematographer: Wade Muller
Editor: Xu Weirao 
Genres: Comedy, Drama and Family 
Country: Taiwan   
Language: Mandarin

Movie Plot
A single and career-driven lawyer is given a second chance in life following a fatal car crash. In the span of seven days, she finds herself taking on a new life where she assumes the role of a housewife, taking care of her architect husband and two children.

Movie Trailer

(Movie and Trailer Credits: Original creators and artists for creating a Beautiful Accident)

Post Sources
Movie Poster: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Beautiful_Accident.jpg
Movie Details and Plot: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beautiful_Accident
Movie Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fai9n79NkeE

With Hope.