Visual schedules

 

Benefits of Using a Visual Schedule:

• Provides structure and predictability by showing a child what is coming up next.  This greatly reduces anxiety and builds confidence.
• Helps with transitions from one activity to the next.
• Picture form is easier to understand than verbal instructions.  Children with autism often comprehend pictures and/or written directions easier than verbal cues alone.
• Helps to teach a sequence of events especially when using words, “first”, “next”, and “last”.
• Expedites learning routines and fosters independence in self-help/hygiene skills and household/school jobs.
• Helps with time management and literacy development by reading through pictures and words associated with them.
• Improves conversation skills by giving a visual framework of what they did and what was their favourite part of the end of the day.
• Assists teachers and caregivers with routine changes, when things get out of sync.  It also helps to introduce a new and/or different activity.

Advice

• Be sure your schedule is in a central location where it can be easily seen. 
• Review upcoming schedules and changes with your kids beforehand. Use the schedule as a visual aid during your discussion
• Assist and support your children as needed while they grow accustomed to using their visual schedule independently.
• Try to avoid using too many words when referencing the schedule.
• Be consistent in your instructions and your use of the schedule. Use it every day to help your kids establish this new routine.
• Give your child the authority to manipulate the schedule when appropriate. This will help your child practice autonomy and encourage independence.
• Consider using mini-schedules and breakdowns for tasks that have multiple steps, like brushing teeth or packing a lunch.

https://www.widgit.com/resources/lifeskills/personal-social/index.htm

https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/how-to-make-a-visual-schedule/

https://adayinourshoes.com/free-printable-visual-schedules-for-home-and-daily-routines/