Visual Schedules for Kids: A Parent’s Guide

Have you ever wondered if visual schedules for kids might help your child? Does your child have difficulty transitioning from activity to activity, or place to place? There are many ways to support children with transitions, and visual schedules are a great option. As adults, we often use some sort of visual schedule to stay organized: to-do lists, planners, and sticky notes are just a few examples.

What Is a Visual Schedule?

A visual schedule shows upcoming events or activities through visual supports such as pictures, words, or tangible objects. Visual schedules may tell a student what is happening next, when it is happening, and maybe even where it will take place. Visual schedules can range in complexity. Some students may benefit from two pictures (like a first/then schedule), while others may benefit from having their entire day mapped out.

Why Would I Use a Visual Schedule?

As mentioned above, most adults use visual schedules or supports daily. They help students know what’s coming next and can take the uncertainty out of an unfamiliar activity or event. Change can be difficult for many students, and visual supports can decrease stress and anxiety around new situations because kids can see what they’ll be doing and when. Visual schedules can also help older students stay organized and know what they need to do, and by when.

My Child Would Benefit From a Visual Schedule. Now What?

The first step is figuring out the best design for your student. It’s important to take into consideration things like comprehension level, attention span, sequencing ability, and interest level. Presenting the information in a way that feels meaningful and fun for your child makes a real difference. There are high-tech options on tablets and phones, as well as low-tech options using objects or paper supports.

When Might My Child Benefit From a Visual Schedule?

Every child is different in their needs. However, some common times that visual schedules for kids can be beneficial include:

• Academic tasks, like homework
• Transitioning from a preferred activity to a nonpreferred one, like leaving the park to go home
• Chores
• Doctor or dentist visits
• Unfamiliar events, such as moving or starting at a new school

Finding the Right Fit

Schedules are important for children of all ages, but they’ll look different for every student. It’s important to feel comfortable with the tools you’re using and to make sure they’re practical for the situations at hand. If the tools are too complicated or impractical for challenging situations, they won’t get used, or won’t be effective. Your child’s speech-language pathologist can help answer questions and determine an appropriate level if you’re unsure.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions about supporting your child with visual schedules or other strategies, contact our team at ETLC. We’re happy to help.