What is a visual schedule?
A visual schedule is a tool that provides children with images to guide their day. Visual schedules are often seen in classrooms, because it is an effective tool to ensure that all children know the routine of the day. This can be just as helpful for your child at home.
Visual schedules can be created for specific times of the day, such as a morning schedule. Or, they can be created for specific daily activities such as using the bathroom.
Why does a visual schedule help?
Visual schedules are an easy way to help deter negative behaviors. Negative behaviors arise when children:
- Are unclear of the expectations
- Feel out of control
- Are unaware of the schedule to the day
- Have difficulty understanding several tasks in a row
Visual schedules allow your child to feel independent and in control, which helps increase positive behaviors. These schedules are quick and easy to make, and can make a tremendous difference in your child’s behaviors.
Where should I put a visual schedule?
Visual schedules should be displayed in easy to view areas. These schedules should be easy to see and refer to on a daily basis. The best places for your visual schedules might be:
- On the refrigerator
- On your child’s bedroom door
- On the bathroom mirror
- Next to your child’s shoes on the way out the door
- Attached to your child’s backpack
A Few Tips to Making a Visual Schedule:
- Visual schedules do not need to be complicated. The images can be drawn, cut from magazines, or printed from the internet.
- Depending on your child’s age, ask them for help to cut or glue the images. Your child’s involvement can be helpful in having them follow each step of the schedule.
- Visual schedules are best when your child can physically check off when an item has been completed. This can be done by laminating the checklist and having your child use a dry-erase marker to check off each time a task is completed, or using velcro and having your child move the icon each time a task is completed.
Are you ready to get started with implementing a visual schedule? Below is a how-to video that will show you how to create and carry out a visual schedule in your home.