What is a visual timetable?
A visual timetable is a way of showing a routine through pictures and/or words. Visual timetables can provide structure and routine throughout the day.
A visual timetable can be:
- A written list of activities that the child crosses off throughout the day.
- Symbols or pictures stuck on the wall – the child can remove the pictures when the activity is finished and place them in a “finished” box
- A checklist of activities that the child ticks off when they have completed them
How do I use a visual timetable at home?
Make sure that your child plays an active role in deciding on the routine. You can discuss what activities they want to do, what rewards they want and so on.
You then display the timetable somewhere where your child can easily see it.
Make sure you refer back to the timetable throughout the day and that your child ticks off/crosses off/removes the symbols as they go so that they understand what they are going to do next.
You can download the PDF above – this contains lots of symbols that you can print and cut out to make your own visual timetable at home. Or you can make one yourself by drawing pictures with your child!
The Garden School is a Special School in Hackney. They have created this fantastic video to help explain how to use visual timetables at home. Check out their YouTube Channel for other videos of ideas and activities to try at home as well.
