Children with autism prefer routine. Regular use of an individualized visual schedule may help enhance an autistic child's organization skills and independent functioning. Consider your child's individual needs when developing his schedule. The schedule should tell your child what is happening, what to expect and when a task is completed. It should also alert your child to any possible schedule changes.
Step 1
Purchase a dry erase board, chalk board, poster board or whatever medium you choose to use for your child's schedule. You could also use a three ring binder or photo album.
Step 2
Choose a visual representation system that your child will best comprehend. Examples include words, photos or line drawings.
Step 3
Create a list of activities that your child needs to complete. Determine the correct sequence of activities. For a visual schedule of activities that need to be completed before going to school, you might include getting dressed, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, brushing hair and getting her backpack.
Step 4
Design a visual representation of each activity. To remind your child to brush his teeth you could include a photo of a toothbrush and toothpaste. Include a way for your child to indicate that the activity has been completed. For instance, he could put a check mark next to a completed task, or place a photo in an envelope marked "Done."
Step 5
Depict the activities on the visual schedule in chronological order. If your child can read a clock face, add a time next to each activity to indicate when it should be completed.
Step 6
Post the schedule in a visible area that is near the supplies your child needs to complete the suggested activities.
Tips and Warnings
- To use a visual schedule, discuss each of the activities with the child at the beginning of the day. Point out any activities that are likely to change. Motivate your child by placing a visual representation of a reward as the last step on the schedule, preceded by the activities that must be completed before the reward can be achieved.
Things You'll Need
- Dry erase board
- Chalk board,
- Poster board
- Photographs,
- Markers
- Chalk
