Visual Schedule

One of the greatest challenges for individuals on the spectrum are transitional problems, which refer to extreme discomfort when facing changes and situations where uncertainties are present. That is why establishing a routine is essential to help them to feel their environment more predictable, creating a safe and more tolerable environment for them. The use of visual aids such as visual schedules, planners, calendars, etc. are a great help to overcome these complications. At the end of this page you can find an example of visual schedule that I made because of the quarantine period that we are currently facing in this time of Covid-19.

It is important to consider use these tools along with a plan B, that way you will be able to teach them to be more flexible when facing transitional difficulties. For example, if going to the park every Saturday afternoon is included in a daily planner, a plan B according to the child's preference should also be included. It could be eating one of your favorite snacks while watching a TV show or movie together, or doing a cushion circuit inside the house, etc. It is important that the child understands the conditioning factor of Plan B being explicit with the motives, and then encouraging him/her to choose an option “On Saturday afternoon we will go to the park! What is Plan B if it is raining outside or one of us feel unwell?

The child should join you by providing options to plan future activities or objectives, allowing him/her to show his/her preferences, especially in the case of non-verbal individuals through pictograms or the use of tablets that facilitate their communication.

Considerations about the Visual Schedule:

Activities such as getting dress, making the bed, setting and clearing the table are mentioned in this visual schedule. Remember that it is very important to include children in these routines as it will help them acquire greater levels of autonomy, additionally this will make them feel that they are part of the family by helping with household chores. This is taught gradually from placing only the glasses on the table for example, to progressively set the table on their own.

An important consideration is that at bedtime you should give the child positive and calm messages. You should elevate his/her spirit by mentioning his value as a person, acknowledging positive aspects of his personality and attitudes that he/she had on that day, without forgetting to mention how much you love him/her.💖


Download link: Visual Schedule