# What are the best visual schedule apps for autistic kids?

> An honest comparison of visual schedule apps for iPad and iPhone, what each is built for, and how to choose.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/visual-schedule-apps
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-29

**Short answer:** The right visual schedule app is the one your child understands and you'll actually keep updating. For a young child, look for large pictures, your own photos, a simple first-then view, and offline use. Popular options on the App Store include Choiceworks, First-Then, Lil Planner, Goally, Tiimo and The Autism Kit. Try the free version or trial with one routine for a week before paying.

**Key takeaways**
- The best app is the one your child **understands** and you **keep using**.
- Look for **big pictures**, **your own photos**, **first-then**, and **offline** use.
- Check what's **free** and what needs a **subscription**.
- **Trial one routine** for a week before paying.

## What should a visual schedule app do?

Visual schedules are an evidence-based practice for autistic children.[1] A good app should make them easier, not add screen time. Look for:

- Large, clear pictures and your own photos
- A simple first-then view for young children
- Steps your child can tick off
- Works offline, with no ads
- Quick to change when plans change

## How do popular apps compare?

| App | Developer | Built for | Price to download |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Choiceworks | Bee Visual LLC | Visual schedules, waiting, choices and feelings boards | $39.99 |
| First-Then | Graham McLellan | Simple two-step first-then boards | Free |
| Lil Planner | Space Sweater, LLC | Kids' routines with rewards | Free |
| Goally | Goally, Inc. | Parent app for the Goally kids' tablet | Free (tablet sold separately) |
| Tiimo | tiimo ApS | Visual planner for neurodivergent teens and adults | Free |
| The Autism Kit (First and Then Visual Schedule) | Accretive Systems LLC | First-then boards and picture schedules with your own photos and voice | Free, with premium subscription |

Prices and features change, so check each App Store listing before you choose.[2][3]

## How do I choose?

**Try:**
- Matching the app to your child's age
- Using your child's own photos
- Trying one routine for a week
- Checking the privacy details on the listing

**Skip:**
- Apps with ads for young children
- Paying before trying
- Switching apps every week

**Consistency beats features.** Whichever app you pick, use the same pictures and words at home, school and therapy.

Free printable: [Free printable: starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Pick one routine to try
- [ ] Try one app for a week
- [ ] Use your child's own photos

Read next: [Visual schedule app or printable: which is better?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/visual-schedule-app-vs-printable)

## Common questions

### Is a visual schedule app better than paper?

Not always. Apps are easier to update, carry and personalise; paper is quick and always visible. Many families use both.

### Are free visual schedule apps any good?

Some are. Check whether the features you need are free or need a subscription, and whether there are ads.

### What should I avoid?

Apps with ads on child-facing screens, tiny pictures, lots of animation, or accounts that upload your child's photos without clear privacy information.

## 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. Apple App Store: Choiceworks (Bee Visual LLC). https://apps.apple.com/us/app/choiceworks/id486210964
3. Apple App Store: First and Then Visual Schedule (The Autism Kit). https://apps.apple.com/us/app/first-and-then-visual-schedule/id6747053750

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