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Dec 1, 2023 · Visual schedules are a tool used to help students with autism better understand their daily routines and activities, reducing anxiety and increasing independence. In this article, we will explore what a visual schedule is, how it works, and why it is beneficial for students with autism.
The DAILY VISUAL SCHEDULE CD is one in a series of training CD’s developed, produced and distributed by the Rochester Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, University of Rochester. This product is designed for community education specific to the assessment and treatment of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder.
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People also ask
How do I make a visual schedule for my autistic child?
Can visual activity schedules help autism/autistic people?
Can schedules help children with autism/autistic individuals?
Visual schedules can play a powerful role in the lives of individuals with autism by providing a structured visual outline of daily activities. These tools are adapted to various needs and can include images, words, or physical objects to represent different tasks and transitions throughout the day.
- Identify The Target Skill Or Routine
- Find The Right Visual Style
- Include A Mix of Activities
- Keep The Schedule Accessible
- Involve Your Child in The Process
- Involve Other Caregivers
For example, if you want to make the morning routine easier, focus on that for a visual schedule first. Break down the activities of the morning into simple, achievable steps.
The best visual tool will depend on your child’s preferences. Some children may respond better to seeing pictures of themselves doing the task. Others may prefer illustrations. And others may only need a text list. It may take you several tries to find the best visual tool for your child.
To complete a long list of work, your child may need to be rewarded with a preferred activity, such as time to read or a few minutes to play. Be sure to mix in these activities so they have something to work toward.
Keep a copy of the schedule hanging somewhere where your child can see it at all times, or give them a version to carry around. They should have access to it at school too. A digital schedule on a tablet or other smart device is also an option.
Younger children may not have any interest in being part of their daily planning, but older children, adolescents, and teenagers might. You can use a visual schedule to plan out their day with them, which can help develop their decision making skills. This can give them a sense of ownership over their day. It can help them mentally prepare for what...
Ideally, you’ll consult your child’s teachers and caregivers to both create visual schedules and execute them. Teachers may use their own version at school, but the two of you can work together to find the best type of visual tools and the best way to reinforce the goal and success.
What is a visual schedule? What do visual schedules accomplish? How do I know when visual schedules are necessary? How do I create and customize visual schedules for my child? How do I implement visual schedules? Why are Visuals so Important? Research indicates that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders*:
According to the National Standards Project: Phase 2 (2015), the use of schedules with children with autism/autistic individuals is an established intervention that has been shown to increase their independence and their ability to plan for events that are upcoming.
Activity schedules for children with autism: Teaching independent behavior. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House. Bryan, L.C. & Gast, D.L. (2000). Teaching on-task and on-schedule behaviors to high-functioning children with autism via picture activity schedules. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 30, 553-567. Dooley, P. (2001).
