What Is a Visual Schedule?
A visual schedule is a series of pictures, icons, tangible objects, or written words that depicts a series of activities during a certain time period (e.g., morning get-ready routine) or a series of steps in a daily routine (e.g., steps in hand washing). Visual schedules range in complexity. Some students may benefit from two pictures (i.e., first/then), and some may benefit from having their entire day scheduled. For some, a written list is all they may need.
Who Benefits From Visual Schedules?
Anyone and everyone! Visual picture schedules are especially helpful for children who can’t read, those with limited comprehension of spoken language, and those who struggle with change or transitions between activities. Written lists or visual schedules that combine words and pictures can be used by anyone who benefits from knowing the plan for an activity or time of day.
When and Where Should I Use a Visual Schedule With My Child?
Some common times that visual schedules can be beneficial include daily routines (e.g., getting ready for school, getting ready for bed), transitioning from a preferred activity to a nonpreferred activity (e.g., first [park], then [home]), chores, a basic daily schedule, what to expect at doctor/dentist visits, or what to expect for unfamiliar events such as moving. Visual schedules are helpful in any setting (school, therapy, home, etc.).
Why Are Visual Schedules Helpful?
Visual schedules help lessen the anxiety that naturally comes with unpredictability. It is normal for anyone to feel stressed or anxious, to some extent, when their day is full of abrupt and surprising transitions. Visual schedules decrease stress and anxiety around new situations because children can SEE what they will do and when they will do it. Visual schedules help transitions between activities go more smoothly.
Visual schedules help children develop sequencing, prioritization, and organization skills. Visual schedules help older students know what they have to do and when they have to have it completed. As adults, we frequently use schedules to keep us organized: to-do lists, planners, calendars, sticky notes, and spreadsheets. Teaching these skills early will set your child up for organizational success!
How Do I Create a Visual Schedule?
- Choose the purpose for the visual schedule (e.g., steps in an activity of daily living, morning get-ready routine, basic first/then for transitions throughout the day, etc.)
- Consider your child’s comprehension, attention span, sequencing ability, and interest level. Consider starting with a simple visual schedule (e.g., first ___, then ___) and then increasing the complexity of the visual schedule as your child shows success.
- Decide whether your visual schedule will be low-tech (e.g., laminated paper schedule with attachable velcro picture icons, or a written list ) or high-tech (e.g., digital picture or written schedule via an app), and create it!
Helpful apps:
Visual Daily Schedule. Text or picture cards. Stock images or take your own. Includes optional timer for each task. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/visual-daily-schedule/id1508150689
Kids ToDo List. Picture cards. Stock images or take your own. Includes a timer for each task. Can record your voice over each picture. Simple motivator for children when they complete a task (e.g., collecting fish, tapping stars). https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kids-todo-list/id1250309171
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center Helps Parents Support Their Children
Need help in creating a visual schedule for your child? Or, perhaps you’re interested in other techniques for learning? Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center is here to help support parents in developing their children’s speech, social, and academic skills. For more information, contact us today!
info@enrichmenttherapies.com
740 Community Drive, Unit A
North Liberty, IA 52317
319-626-2553
infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com
5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300
Johnston, IA 50131
515-419-4270
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