What is a visual schedule and how can it help my child?

Many of our kiddos are visual learners, and research shows that visual schedules can clearly reinforce expectations in a way that’s easy for kids to understand, which can lead to reduced stress and anxiety, increased independence, and fewer meltdowns. Being able to visualize the day, week, or even month ahead can help kids complete steps, transition between activities, stay focused, and process information. This also provides a sense of predictability in an increasingly unpredictable environment.

A visual schedule is considered an important intervention according to the University of Utah Department of Educational Psychology’s report on Visual Schedules: A Practical Guide for Families. Visual schedules can help kids with following a routine, transition between activities, develop new skills, and be more independent when completing daily tasks.

Visual schedules can consist of photographs, videos, line drawings, symbols, text, or another visual format that is used to show the user what they are expected to do.” These tasks are then arranged in the order they are to be completed. This provides the child with predictability and expectations.

For more information on how to create a visual schedule, see our article The Amazing Visual Schedule!