Using visuals to help an autistic child learn and communicate

Visual resources can help autistic children understand what is going on around them, communicate with others or make choices. 

Visuals can be more consistent and easier to understand than spoken words. They can be objects, gestures, photos, written checklists and anything else that helps to back up verbal communication. 

Resources at home

Visuals can help your child at home and when they’re out and about. You can laminate or use sticky back plastic to cover printed visuals so they last longer. 

Visit Widgit for more visual resources 

Now and Next board

Using a visual timetable such as a Now and Next Board can help your child understand what is expected of them or what they will be doing. It can help reduce anxiety and help a child to remember what is happening while adding routine and structure to the day. It can also increase their independence. 

1. Print the Now and Next Board. 
2. Print the symbols for Home visuals.
3. Place the symbol of what your child is expected to do now in the now column and what they’re expected to do next in the next column.  
4. You can help your child remove the symbols and move them across the board as you tell them what is happening. 

This visual support system is portable so you can also use it outside of your home. It also means that when you want to tell your child what is happening, you don’t have to rely on using lots of language.  

Find more support with resources if your child is under 5

Self-care skills

You can use sequence strips or stories to help support your child with specific self-care skills.  

For example, you can stick the toileting sequence on your bathroom wall at your child’s eye level to help them understand the steps they need to complete to use the toilet successfully. Most children need an adult to guide them through the steps and prompt them physically to complete each step. 

It may take weeks or months for your child to learn a new skill so do not give up.

Communication

You can use this board to help your child communicate their choices. 

1. Print the Choosing board template.
2. Take pictures of your child’s favourite toys or activities and print them out individually.
3. Place the pictures on the board for your child to make a choice from.  

It is a good idea to start with fewer pictures until your child is confident handing one to you to make their choice. Then you can add more to give your child a wider variety of activities to choose from.