Self-regulation and independence are crucial long-term goals for most parents and teachers, and no one likes to nag or repeat instructions. Transitions are a common source of disruptive behaviour, but visual schedules are great for smoothing them out. Visual schedules can help decrease tantrums and off-task behaviour. There is evidence to suggest that people with ASD rely more on visualization to support language comprehension, so why not use what works? As Temple Grandin pointed out, people with autism sometimes see the world in pictures. Target your learner’s strengths! If you find that your verbal reminders are getting ignored, switch channels and use the visual instead. Visual schedules can be used to help in schools and at home withĪfter reading this, you might be inspired to create one for yourself!įirst of all, let’s talk about WHY you should use a visual schedule There is some good evidence for its use with individuals with a variety of disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but like most good teaching tools, it can work for anyone, regardless of age and diagnosis. If you have someone in your life who needs help following a routine or learning a complex new skill, it’s worth thinking about a visual schedule (also known as an activity schedule).