RoutineKit

Visual schedule for kids

A picture timetable of the day, top to bottom, with a box to tick as each part finishes. Free to print, with your own photos if your child needs them.

Steps (9)
Look & print settings
Today
  1. Breakfast7:30
  2. Car to school8:15
  3. School8:45
  4. Home3:15
  5. Snack3:30
  6. Park4:00
  7. Dinner5:30
  8. Bath6:30
  9. Bed7:30

In the print dialog choose Save as PDF for a file, and turn on Background graphics to keep the colours. Your chart saves automatically in this browser.

How many pictures should a schedule show?

A common mistake is putting the whole day on the board. Step through the same morning both ways and watch where your eye goes:

12 pictures in view

Twelve pictures is a lot for a three-year-old to scan. The current step is easy to lose, and the end looks very far away.

Using a visual schedule at home

  1. Start with one hard transition, such as leaving the house or getting into the bath, before scheduling the whole day.
  2. Check the schedule together at each change: “Look, snack is finished. What’s next?”
  3. Mark changes visibly. If the park is cancelled, swap the card while your child watches rather than just not going.
  4. Match school. Ask the teacher what symbols and direction they use and copy them.

Visual schedules and autism

Visual supports are listed among evidence-based practices for autistic children and young people by the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (2020). They reduce uncertainty about what's coming, which for many children reduces anxiety around transitions. This tool is a general-purpose maker; your child's speech or occupational therapist can advise on symbol types and how many steps to show.

For a two-step version (“first shoes, then park”), use the first–then board. To make cards for a Velcro strip, try routine cards.

Questions parents ask

What is a visual schedule?

A sequence of pictures that shows what is happening now and what comes next. It can cover a whole day (a visual timetable), one routine, or just two steps (a first–then board).

Are visual schedules helpful for autistic children?

Yes. Visual supports, including visual schedules, are among the evidence-based practices identified for autistic children by the National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice. Many children with ADHD, anxiety or language delays benefit too. Work with your child’s therapist or teacher so home and school schedules look alike.

What is the difference between a visual schedule and a visual timetable?

Mostly the setting. “Visual timetable” is the common term in UK schools for a whole-day picture schedule, often displayed vertically. “Visual schedule” is the wider term and includes short routines.

Should a visual schedule go left-to-right or top-to-bottom?

Either works if you are consistent. Top-to-bottom (the checklist layout) matches how many classroom timetables work; left-to-right matches reading direction. Use the same direction at home and at school where possible.

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