# How do support workers use visual supports with autistic children?

> Which visual supports to use, how to introduce them, and how to stay consistent with the family and therapists.

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

**Short answer:** Support workers can use visual supports, like a visual schedule for the outing, a first-then board for transitions and a choice board for activities, to make time together predictable and less stressful. The key is consistency: use the same pictures and words the family and therapists use, introduce supports when the child is calm, and follow any behaviour support plan.

**Key takeaways**
- Use **visual schedules**, **first-then boards** and **choice boards**.
- Stay **consistent** with the family and therapists.
- **Introduce** supports when the child is calm.
- Follow any **behaviour support plan**.

## Which visual supports help most?

| Support | Use it for |
| --- | --- |
| Visual schedule | Showing the plan for a shift or outing |
| First-then board | Moving from something fun to something needed |
| Choice board | Choosing activities or snacks |
| Break card | A clear way to ask for a break |

Visual supports are an evidence-based practice for autistic children and young people.[1]

## How do I introduce them?

1. **Ask the family** which pictures and words they use.
2. **Show, then say**: point to the picture and use a few words.
3. **Keep it short**: start with two or three steps.
4. **Follow through**: when "first" is done, "then" happens.

**Carry a small kit.** A few laminated cards or an app on a phone means you always have the schedule with you.

## How do I stay consistent?

**Try:**
- Using the family's words and pictures
- Asking therapists which strategies to reinforce
- Writing a short note after each shift

**Skip:**
- Changing the system without telling the family
- Using visual supports as threats
- Removing preferred items as punishment

**Family-centred practice.** Australia's national guideline emphasises working in partnership with families and respecting children's rights.
  [2]

Free printable: [Free printable: first-then board](https://theautismkit.com/printables/first-then-board.pdf)

## What can I try on my next shift?

- [ ] Ask the family which visual supports they use
- [ ] Show a three-step schedule for the shift
- [ ] Use first-then for one transition

## Common questions

### Should I make my own visual supports?

Ask the family first. Using the same pictures and words they already use is usually best.

### What if the child pushes the schedule away?

Don't force it. Try again when calm, keep it short, and show something they enjoy as the next step.

### Do I need special training?

Training helps, and many organisations provide it. Start by learning from the family and the child's therapists.

## 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. Autism CRC: Supporting autistic children national guideline. https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/supporting-children

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