Visual resources can help autistic children understand what is going on around them, communicate with others or make choices. They can be more consistent and easier to understand than spoken words.
Visual resources can be objects, gestures, photos, written checklists or anything else that helps to back up verbal communication.
We have lots of resources for parents to use at home and resources for schools and nurseries.
Visuals can help your child at home and when they’re out and about. Print them and then laminate or use sticky back plastic so they last longer. You can also take photos to have on your phone if appropriate for your child.
Now and Next board
Using a visual timetable such as a Now and Next Board can help your child understand what is happening, what is expected of them or what they will be doing next.
It can help reduce anxiety and help a child to remember what is happening while adding routine and structure to the day. It can also increase their independence.
Using visual timetables also means you do not have to rely on using lots of language. This can help when a child is find ing it hard managing their emotions or behaviour.
Download Now and Next timetables
The timetable should be portable so you can use it outside of your home. It should go with the child wherever they are.
- Place the symbol of what your child is expected to do now in the 'Now' column and what they’re expected to do next in the 'Next' column.
- When the first thing is finished, remove the visual, move the next visual into the 'Now' column and put what is happening after in the 'Next' box
- You can help your child to remove the symbols and move them across the board as you tell them what is happening to increase their understanding and independence
There are a range of visuals for activities and behaviour at home, symbols in nurseries and school symbols which can by used on timetables.
Communication
Visuals can help the child's developing communication and our communication with them.
Children can be supported to point to or exchange visuals to get their message across and their needs met.
There are lots of visuals for different activities and an example of a choosing board, where you might place some options for the child to choose from.
Find resources for parents to use at home or resources for schools and nurseries.
Social stories
Social stories are a strategy which can help an autistic child to:
- understand social situations
- understand why people may behave or respond in a particular way
- help prepare them for something ahead of time
Download social stories and transition books
Self-care checklists
There are visual supports for assisting an autistic child to understand and become independent in their self-care routines.
These break down a routine into steps which can be easier for a child to follow when shown visually.
Find more activities for children under 5
You can also make your own by signing up to Widgit.