Visual Schedule
A sequence of pictures, symbols, or words showing a student what is happening now and what comes next, reducing the uncertainty that drives many transition behaviours.
A visual schedule makes time visible. Instead of holding a day's sequence in working memory — or depending on an adult to announce each change — the student can see what is happening now, what comes next, and how much is left. Formats range from object schedules and photo strips for early learners to written checklists for older students.
Visual schedules work because they function as antecedent interventions: they reduce the unpredictability that triggers escape- and anxiety-related behaviour around transitions. They are most effective when the student interacts with the schedule (moving or checking off each item), when changes to routine are shown on the schedule rather than just announced, and when the schedule is taught explicitly rather than simply laminated and posted.