Visual Schedules

Taking a visual schedule into the community setting may not seem like the most convenient approach but it can be very helpful. The visual schedule is valuable because it provides concrete images of
what to expect and what is expected in the community setting. The
schedule can be as detailed or as brief as necessary. These familiar items are used in the home and school settings and they are helpful in building expectations and providing instruction.

Transitions are always difficult but if a visual schedule is designed that outlines the events that are about to occur the individual with autism will make smoother transitions. A simple schedule would include the following:
Car
Walk
Shopping Cart
Wait
Cashier
Walk
Car
Home
All Done

The focus of this visual schedule is the transitional moments. As each event is accomplished, the child can remove the picture from the visual schedule.