Visual helpers like picture cards, schedules, and social stories help your child understand what’s going to happen, make choices, and learn skills.
How to make and use various kinds of visual helpers; where to find free printable resources.
Learn how to use picture cards and picture schedules with children with autism in this instructional video. Part 1 of 2.
Learn how to use picture cards and picture schedules in this instructional video (part 2 of 2).
When you're first starting out, use picture cards in a fun and positive way, maybe using the child's special interests as a reinforcement.
When your child is used to them, then you can use them for more difficult communications challenges, like making choices and modifying behavior.
Whatever you do, don't just use them when things start to break down or as a last resort, because you don't want them just associated with negative events.
You can laminate them and either cut them into separate square picture cards, or leave them whole to use as a conversation board or choice board.
I prefer to cut them up and use them as picture cards, because I think it's easier for the child to focus on one or two cards at a time.
I usually have them laminated at Staples, but you can also use page protectors. Laminating them makes them durable and almost waterproof.
You'll also want velcro squares (adhere the soft side to the laminated card).
Sprinkled throughout this site! And check these links
Do2Learn (free picture cards, tips and instructions)
Tinsnips (free visual helpers to download and print)
Autism Picture Cards (free picture cards to download and print)
SuperDuper Handout: Can Pictures Help Children With Autism?
SuperDuper Handout: Help Kids Learn Routines With Visual Schedules
SuperDuper Handout: Getting the Most Out of Boardmaker
Boardmaker Software and Accessories
Helpful book for using visual helpers: More Than Words: Helping Parents Promote Communication and Social Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Legal disclaimer: The tools and recommendations on this website are not intended to replace the information, training, and support you may receive from qualified medical and therapeutic professionals. It is the parent's responsibility to verify the accuracy of recommendations and information before implementing changes that may impact the parent's child.