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How do we keep visual supports the same at home and at school?

Why consistency matters, how to share supports and language, and a simple home-school communication routine.

By The Autism Kit teamUpdated Sep 27, 2026 · 1 min read
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The short answer

Children understand and use visual supports more easily when home and school use the same pictures, words and routines. Share the supports you use (or photos of them), agree a few key phrases like 'first, then' and 'finished', and set up a simple daily or weekly note. Apps that families and teachers both use make this easier.

Key takeaways
  • Use the same pictures and words at home and school.
  • Share supports or photos of them.
  • Agree key phrases: "first, then", "finished", "wait".
  • Keep a simple communication routine.

Why does consistency matter?

When the same supports appear everywhere, children spend less effort decoding and more effort using them. Visual supports and parent-implemented strategies are both among the evidence-based practices identified for autistic children.12

How do we share supports?

Try
  • Sending home copies of class schedule cards
  • Using photos of the child's real things
  • Agreeing 3 to 5 key phrases
  • One app both families and teachers use
Skip
  • Different symbols at home and school
  • Changing systems without telling each other

What's a simple communication routine?

A short daily or weekly note covering what went well, what was hard, and something to talk about at home, plus a line from home about the evening and morning. It helps both sides spot patterns and celebrate progress.

Free printable: home-school communication sheetPDF · 1 page · a quick daily note between school and home
Download Free printable: home-school communication sheet

What can we do this week?

0 of 3 done

Common questions

Pick one set together, or use real photos in both places. Consistency matters more than which system.

Sources

  1. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. afirm.fpg.unc.edu
  2. National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice: Research and resources (parent-implemented intervention). ncaep.fpg.unc.edu

This guide shares general information and our team's perspective, based on the sources above. Rules and services differ by country, region and school, so always check your local guidance and your organisation's policies. How we write our guides.

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