181 Visual Schedules

Individuals with ASD sometimes have difficulties with sequential processing (i.e., learning the order of events). These difficulties may result in individuals becoming anxious or overwhelmed in certain situations, which in turn may lead to problem behaviors. In contrast, individuals with ASD often have strengths in visual processing. As a result of this strength, the use of visual schedules can help the individual better understand expectations, thus reducing the likelihood of negative behaviors.

A visual schedule is a line of pictures, objects, or words that represent each major transition during the day or at each step of an activity. Some people worry that adding schedules to an individual’s day will reduce the ability to be flexible. In reality, the opposite is true. By implementing a visual schedule, individuals generally are less dependent on having the same daily routine ongoing because the schedule itself provides the stability and routine needed. Individuals can better handle changes to routine when they have schedules because they know that, regardless of the precise activities reflected, they can always determine what will happen next and get information by checking their schedule.

There are a variety of options available for individuals to be actively involved in monitoring and manipulating his or her schedule (e.g., Velcro peel off, check off boxes).

There are a variety of activity schedule formats available (e.g., picture, word, pull-off, and check off). For details on each format, refer to the information for visual schedules on HANDS in Autism®’s website.

Below are a few examples of places and activities where a visual schedule can be helpful:

Home/community

• After school activities
• Household chores
• Errands list

School 

• Daily school schedule
• Activity schedule

Work

• Shift schedule
• Job task mini schedule

Medical

• Vital check
• Appointment routine