Visual schedules are words, pictures or visual representations, like a timetable, of the sequence of activities or events that will happen over a certain duration. They can be adapted to a child’s individual needs. For kids who can read, parents can write out the schedule in a calendar. For those who don’t, draw up to three activities on a sheet of paper. For kids who don’t understand visuals, use objects, such as a toothbrush, cup or a pair of shoes to symbolise a morning routine of brushing teeth, drinking milk and going for a walk.
The benefits of visual schedules for autistic children and other visual learners, include clarity, predictability and permanence –they don’t disappear like spoken words so kids can circle back to them as reminders. They help kids follow routines and rules, transition between activities, develop new skills, and reduce dependence in their daily activities.