Visual Supports

A consistent schedule provides routines for children, which strengthens feelings of security and confidence.

Having a consistent schedule and routine is really important for young children in the classroom. It helps them feel safe and sure of what’s going on, and it also helps teachers have a more organized day.

A consistent schedule for your class should include regular times for naps, different kinds of activities such as center play, outdoor time, and mealtimes. It is also important to give students the option to spend time alone if they choose.

Pictures and schedules can be very helpful for kids to understand what’s happening during the day. You can use pictures or drawings to show what happens during different activities, and you can make a chart on the wall with cards that show the order of activities.

By using visual supports, children can have more control and understanding of what’s happening in the classroom, which makes them feel better and more confident. As a teacher, it’s important to make visual supports that are easy to understand for your students, and to encourage them to ask for help if they need it.

Examples of Visual Supports that teachers can use in the classroom:

A Picture Schedule:
A Choice Board
Visual timers:
Picture Cues:
A First/Then Board

This is a visual representation of the daily routine that can be posted on the wall or a bulletin board in the classroom. It can include pictures or symbols of each activity, such as circle time, snack time, recess, etc.

This is a visual tool that allows students to make choices about what activity they want to do next.

The board can include pictures or symbols of different options, such as playing with toys, doing a puzzle, reading a book, etc.

Here is an example of a visual time. They can be helpful for children who struggle with understanding time or have difficulty transitioning from one activity to another.

These are small pictures or symbols that can be used to represent different tasks or steps within an activity. For example, a picture of a hand washing with soap and water can be used to cue children to wash their hands before snack time.

This is a visual tool that shows the child what they need to do first and what they will do next. For example, a first/then board can show a picture of the child completing their math worksheet first, followed by a picture of them playing a game as a reward.

Visual supports are a powerful tool that can help children better understand and follow daily routines and activities. Here are some additional ways to add visual prompts: ( Use the arrows to move to the next slide)

Remember, visual prompts should be age-appropriate and designed to help children understand and participate in classroom activities. By using visual prompts effectively, you can create a more supportive and engaging learning environment for all students.

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