# 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.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/home-school-visual-supports
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**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.[1][2]

## 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.

**Keep it quick.** A one-page sheet or three bullet points is enough. Long notes are hard to keep up.

Free printable: [Free printable: home-school communication sheet](https://theautismkit.com/printables/home-school-sheet.pdf)

## What can we do this week?

- [ ] Share photos of the class schedule with the family
- [ ] Agree three key phrases
- [ ] Start a simple daily note

## Common questions

### What if home and school use different symbols?

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

### How often should we communicate?

A short daily note works for many younger children; weekly may be enough for others. Agree what works for both sides.

### Can families use school's visual supports at home?

Yes. Sending home copies or photos of the class schedule and cards is one of the easiest ways to build consistency.

## Sources

1. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/Visual-Supports-Brief-Packet.pdf
2. National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice: Research and resources (parent-implemented intervention). https://ncaep.fpg.unc.edu/research-and-resources/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.