# What are visual supports, and why do they help autistic children?

> Pictures, objects and written words that show a child what's happening, what's next and what to do.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/what-are-visual-supports
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-28

**Short answer:** Visual supports are pictures, objects, symbols or written words that show a child what is happening, what comes next, or what to do. Many autistic children understand what they see more easily than spoken words, and pictures stay put while words disappear. Visual supports are one of the evidence-based practices identified for autistic children. Common types are visual schedules, first-then boards, choice boards and token boards.

**Key takeaways**
- Visual supports are **pictures, objects or words** that show what's happening.
- Pictures **stay put**, while spoken words disappear.
- They're an **evidence-based practice** for autistic children.
- Start with **one routine** and **one type** of support.

## What counts as a visual support?

Anything your child can see that helps them understand: a photo of the car before you leave, a picture schedule on the fridge, a timer, a written list, or a real object like a towel that means "bath time."[1]

## Why do visual supports help?

Spoken words are gone as soon as they're said. A picture stays there, so your child can look back at it as many times as they need. It also makes the day more predictable, which lowers anxiety for many autistic children.[3] Visual supports are one of the practices with the strongest research base for autistic learners.[2]

## What are the main types?

| Type | What it shows | Good for |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Visual schedule | The steps of a routine or day, in order | Mornings, bedtime, school days |
| First-then board | One task, then something your child likes | Hard tasks and transitions |
| Choice board | Two or more options to pick from | Snacks, play, communication |
| Token board | Progress toward a reward | Staying with a task |
| Visual timer | How much time is left | Waiting and transitions |

## How do I start?

1. **Pick one hard moment**, like getting dressed or leaving the house.
2. **Choose one support**: a first-then board is the easiest start.
3. **Use pictures your child knows**: photos of their own things work well.
4. **Point and say it**: "First shoes, then car."
5. **Use it every time** for a week or two before judging.

**Use it on good days too.** Visual supports work best when they're part of the routine, not only brought out when things go wrong.

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

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Pick one hard moment of the day
- [ ] Make a first-then board for it
- [ ] Use it every time for a week

Read next: [How do first-then boards work?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/first-then-boards)

## Common questions

### Are visual supports only for nonspeaking children?

No. Many autistic children who talk well still find pictures easier to follow, especially when they're tired, anxious or busy.

### Will visual supports stop my child from talking?

No. Visual supports work alongside speech. Say the words as you point to the picture.

### Photos or drawings?

Start with whatever your child recognises. Real photos of their own things are often easiest for young children.

## 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. https://ncaep.fpg.unc.edu/research-and-resources/
3. NHS: Supporting an autistic child. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/supporting-a-child/

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