- Match the schedule to your child's age and understanding.
- Toddlers: first-then. Young kids: 3 to 6 pictures.
- Older kids: full-day or written checklists.
- Show finished steps clearly.
What examples fit each age?
| Age | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 | First-then, objects or photos | First shoes, then park |
| 3 to 6 | 3 to 6 pictures for one routine | Wake, toilet, dress, breakfast, shoes, car |
| 6 to 9 | Half-day or full-day pictures | School, snack, homework, play, dinner, bath, bed |
| 9 to 12 | Written checklist or planner | Checklist on a phone or whiteboard |
Match the picture type to what your child understands.1
What are common routine examples?
- Morning: wake up, toilet, get dressed, breakfast, brush teeth, shoes, bag
- Bedtime: bath, pajamas, teeth, toilet, story, lights out
- After school: snack, quiet time, play outside, homework, dinner
- Outing: car, shop, pick three things, pay, car, home
What makes a schedule work?
Try
- The same order every day
- A 'done' pocket or check mark
- Showing changes on the schedule
Skip
- Too many pictures at once
- Using it only when things go wrong
- Changing symbols often
Visual schedules have a strong research base for autistic children.2
Free printable: 5-step morning schedulePDF · 2 pages · pictures for common steps, plus blank cards
Download Free printable: 5-step morning scheduleWhat can I try this week?
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