How to use a visual schedule to support change and transition

Visual schedules and other visual supports like timers or transition strips are often used with children with autism spectrum disorder or ADHD to support difficulties they have with change, transition, and task completion. Some children do not manage well when they have to stop one task and move on to another, or when there is a change in their daily routine, such as going on a fieldtrip at school. Other children are easily overwhelmed by a larger task and benefit having the activity broken down into smaller steps.

Using a visual schedule helps create structure in your child’s day and it helps clarify expectations. Visual schedules provide a visual aid to help your child navigate a change, which decreases your child’s reliance on verbal prompts. Overtime, this helps build your child’s flexibility and independence.

Visual schedules and supports are effective for children with delayed receptive language (e.g., understanding of language), or those who struggle attending to and processing auditory information (i.e., oral language). Some children become anxious or act out when demands are placed on them and they do not understand what is being asked. It is common for parents and educators to see a decrease in behavioural concerns when visuals are used to support their child.

Many families find it helpful to work with a behaviour consultant at home or a special education teacher at school to develop visual supports. When developing a visual schedule:

When Using the Schedule

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