# How do I make a visual timetable for home or school?

> What to include, how to set it up, how to handle changes, and a free printable for KS1 and KS2.

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

**Short answer:** A visual timetable shows the parts of the day in order, with pictures, symbols or words. For autistic children, it makes the day predictable and reduces worry about what's coming. Keep it at eye level, go left to right or top to bottom, point to the next card before each change, remove or turn over finished cards, and show changes early.

**Key takeaways**
- A visual timetable shows the day **in order** with **pictures, symbols or words**.
- Put it at **eye level** and **point to the next card** before each change.
- **Show changes early** with a "change" card.
- Older pupils may prefer **written lists** or a **tablet**.

## Why do visual timetables help?

They make the day predictable, reduce worry about what's next, and support independence. Visual supports are an evidence-based practice across ages.[1]

## How do I set one up?

1. **Choose the format**: photos, symbols (like Widgit) or words.
2. **Pick the order**: left to right, or top to bottom.
3. **Keep it at eye level** where the child can see and touch it.
4. **Use it actively**: point to the next card before each change.
5. **Show "finished"**: turn over or move completed cards.

**Plan for changes.** Keep a "change" or "surprise" card. When something changes, show the new card as early as possible and talk it
  through.

## What works for KS1 and KS2?

| Stage | Try |
| --- | --- |
| Early years and KS1 | Photos or symbols, now-and-next, half-day timetable |
| Lower KS2 | Symbols with words, whole-day timetable, personal desk copy |
| Upper KS2 | Written list or planner, tablet timetable, pupil ticks off tasks |

## What mistakes should I avoid?

**Try:**
- Using the same pictures at home and school
- Updating it every day
- Letting the pupil move or tick the cards

**Skip:**
- A timetable nobody refers to
- Hiding changes until the last minute
- Too many cards at once

**Training for staff.** The Autism Education Trust offers training and resources many schools use.
  [2]

Free printable: [Free printable: classroom visual timetable](https://theautismkit.com/printables/classroom-visual-timetable.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Print the timetable and cut out the cards
- [ ] Set up today's order at eye level
- [ ] Point to the next card before each change

## Common questions

### Should the whole class have a visual timetable?

A class timetable helps everyone. Some pupils also need a personal timetable on their desk, sometimes broken into smaller steps.

### How many cards should I show?

Start with what the child can manage: sometimes just now and next, sometimes half a day, sometimes the whole day.

### What about older KS2 pupils?

Many older pupils prefer a written list, a planner or a timetable on a tablet. Keep the same principles: order, warnings and clear changes.

## 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 Education Trust. https://www.autismeducationtrust.org.uk/

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