Visual supports for kids
Visual supports are pictures that show the next step. Your child does not have to guess, and you do not have to say the same thing again.
What visual support is
One picture for each thing that will happen. It can be a drawn symbol, a photo from home, or a card you print. Your child sees what happens now and what comes next.
How to start
Pick one part of the day that often snags. Morning is enough. Split it into four to six steps. Put a picture on each step and hang the plan where your child can see it. Point to the picture instead of repeating the words.
Examples: morning, preschool, transitions
A morning might be wake up, toilet, clothes, breakfast, teeth, shoes and bag. At preschool the same kind of pictures help with drop off, play, circle time and pick up. For a transition, two pictures are often enough: first this, then that. Add a picture for wait when something takes time.
Free picture cards
The resource library has sheets to print on A4. They use our own pictures. No account is needed.
When the app is calmer than paper
Paper is good on the fridge and in a bag for preschool. The app is calmer when the day changes, when more than one adult needs the same plan, and when your child wants to check a step and see a star right away.
Morning routine visual schedule. Visual schedule for preschool. Free to print.
FAQ
Does my child need to read?
No. The picture carries the step. The words are for the adult.
How many steps should we use?
Start with four to six. Fewer steps that hold are better than a long list.
Is this a treatment?
No. It is support for ordinary days. It does not replace care or advice from someone who knows your child.
Where do I download the cards?
In the resource library. Choose a template and download the PDF. It is free.
Tired of printing a new plan when the day changes?
In the app your child sees what happens now and what comes next. More than one adult can follow the same routine.