Back-to-School Picture Schedules
Visual Schedules for School Day Routines Help Children with Autism
Aug 23, 2009
The majority of individuals on the autism spectrum have a difficult time with transitions. One of the most stressful times of the year, transition-wise, occurs when the summer break ends and children return to school. One tool that helps children with autism and their families is the use of back-to-school picture schedules.
Picture Schedules vs. PECS
Picture schedules are often confused with PECS, the Picture Exchange Communication System. PECS is a method of communication used by parents, therapists, and educators. This communication system uses pictures to help the individual with autism communicate their wants and needs. Picture schedules use images like PECS, however picture schedules are not primarily used as a communications tool.
Summary of Picture Schedules
A picture schedule is simply a list of images, with or without accompanying text, that allows a child to see a sequence of actions or events in chronological fashion. Picture schedules are often used in autism classrooms and so children are able to quickly pick up on their purpose when a picture schedule is implemented in the home.
Before School
Preparing for a school day, when everyone is running on a tight schedule, can be difficult even for the typical child. Children with autism, who may have sensitivities to clothing or find themselves intently focused on an activity, may have an even more troubling time getting through the morning routine. A before school picture schedule will help the child see what needs to be done before going to school, and hopefully make the transition into the school day easier.
The before school routine varies for every family but an example of a common schedule includes the following steps: wake up, make the bed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, brush hair, get dressed, get backpack and lunch, and get on the bus.
After School
After school schedules may include homework, therapy appointments, extra-curricular activities, chores, dinner, shower, brushing one’s teeth, preparing for bed, and sleep.
Creating a Picture Schedule
The benefit of picture schedules is that anyone can create one. One of the simplest ways to make a picture schedule is to use word processing software and clip art. Start by creating a draft of the child’s day. Once the day is mapped out, search for clip art to match the activity.
In the word processing program, arrange the clip art in chronological order from the beginning of the routine to the end. Add descriptive text if the child is reading then print the document out. The document can then by taken to the local office supply store for lamination, ensuring that it will last.
Naturally, a child’s age and ability level will have an impact on what is included on his picture schedule, including how much detail is needed at each step. Parents should include developmentally appropriate activities to ensure that the picture schedule is not a source of frustration for the child. As the routine changes, the picture schedule can easily be updated.
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