Visual schedule
Last updated
A visual schedule shows the order of activities with pictures, symbols, words or objects, so a student can see what comes next.
Topic: Accommodations, modifications and instruction
In plain terms
Visual schedules reduce uncertainty and support independence. They can show the whole day, part of a routine, or the steps of one task, and can be on a wall, a desk strip, a binder or a tablet. Some students move or check off items as each one ends. They are useful for many students, not only those with autism.
How it shows up in an IEP
A visual schedule can be a support listed in the IEP or the focus of a goal: "will check the schedule and move to the next activity within 2 minutes in 4 of 5 transitions." Plan to fade adult prompts, not the schedule itself.
Example
A kindergartner uses a picture strip of the morning routine. After each activity, the student moves the picture to the "done" pocket and walks to the next area.
Related terms
- AutismUnder IDEA, autism is a developmental disability that significantly affects communication and social interaction and adversely affects educational performance.
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL)Universal Design for Learning is a framework for planning lessons with flexible options from the start, so more students can access and engage with learning.
- Functional communication trainingFunctional communication training teaches a student a simple, effective way to communicate a need that is currently met through problem behavior.
- Self-regulationSelf-regulation is the ability to manage one's energy, emotions, attention and behavior to fit the situation and reach goals.
- AntecedentAn antecedent is what happens right before a behavior, such as a direction, a transition or a hard task, that can trigger it.
On IEP Atlas
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