Oakville Autism

Parent's Corner

Visual Schedules

Custom visual schedules are used for the special needs rehabilitation sessions at Wellness for the Body. Visual schedule systems are used to provide structure and allow students to anticipate what will happen next, reduce anxiety by providing the student with a vision of his/her day, and promote calmness between transitions. The consistency provided by a visual schedule is crucial in establishing an atmosphere of trust and security. Visual supports can also provide motivation to work through a less favoured activity knowing a favoured activity is to follow. When dealing with students with behavioural difficulties, this can be a powerful strategy in maintaining appropriate classroom behaviour. For non-verbal students a visual schedule can be a way to introduce symbols that the student can eventually use as an alternate form of communication. Through the consistent use of the schedule, the student can begin to pair the symbols presented with the activities that are occurring.

Visual schedules and PECS binders are available for home use when rehabilitation programs are transitioned into the home, or for families who are interested in obtaining visual schedules and PECS for other uses.