Visual routines: predictability and support in daily life
Visual supports can help some autistic people understand sequences, anticipate changes and organize activities. The format should be adapted to each person’s communication, preferences and routine.
🧩 What is a visual routine and why can it help?
A visual routine is a sequence of images, photos or symbols showing what will happen and in what order during the day or a specific situation.
Some people understand a routine more easily when spoken information is accompanied by images, objects, written words or other visual supports. This does not mean every autistic person is a “visual learner” or that visual supports will necessarily reduce anxiety or crises. Their usefulness should be observed in everyday life.
Why try greater predictability?
Changes and transitions can be more difficult for some autistic people. Visual supports can make a sequence more explicit, but they do not replace attention to communication, comfort, autonomy and other individual needs.
🛠️ How to create a visual routine at home
Choose the context
Start with a situation that is difficult, such as the morning routine, bedtime or a specific activity like taking a shower or going to the supermarket.
List the steps
Write each step in the correct order. For example, a morning routine might be: wake up → bathroom → get dressed → breakfast → brush teeth → go to school.
Choose the visual format
Try photos, drawings, pictograms, written words, objects or digital resources according to the person’s understanding and preference. PECS is a specific communication system and should not be used as a generic term for visual cards.
Build the board or sequence
Arrange the images in sequence on paper, a board or a Velcro strip. Place them somewhere accessible to the child and easy to see.
Introduce it calmly
Show the routine before it begins, pointing to each step. Explain what will happen using short, simple sentences.
Mark completed steps if that helps
Some people benefit from turning over a card, moving it to a “done” area or marking the step as completed. For others this may be unnecessary. Observe the person’s response.
✂️ Simple, low-cost materials
You do not need to spend much to create a useful visual routine. Here are some accessible options:
Printed photos
Take photos of familiar places and objects at home, such as the bathroom, a plate or the bed. Print them small and laminate them if useful.
Printable cards
Prefer materials from identifiable sources with clear symbols. Avoid calling every set of cards PECS, since that name refers to a specific communication system.
Magnetic or Velcro board
Use a Velcro strip or magnetic board so the sequence can be changed easily according to the day.
Digital resources
Visual scheduling or communication apps may be useful for some people. Check cost, privacy, language, accessibility and purpose before choosing a tool.
Routine notebook
A simple notebook with hand-drawn images can work well. Consistency matters more than visual perfection.
Create it together
When possible, involve the child in creating the routine. Choosing images together can increase engagement and acceptance.
🌱 How to introduce a visual routine
Introduction can be gradual. The goal is for the support to help the person, not become another demand.
→ Start with a simple, relevant situation — a short sequence can make it easier to observe how the person responds to the support.
→ Use a calm, encouraging tone when showing the routine. Present what comes next as information rather than turning it into a command.
→ Allow time to learn how to use the support. Some people understand quickly; others need modeling, repetition or a different format. There is no universal timeline.
→ Acknowledge small steps. When the person checks the routine or completes a step, acknowledge the progress in a genuine way.
→ Adapt it to the child. Some children prefer real photos, others drawings or an app. Observe what works best for the individual child.
🔄 What to do when the routine changes
Unexpected changes happen and may cause significant distress. Some strategies can help reduce the impact:
Give advance notice
When you know a change is coming, give notice as early as possible and use the visual support to show the new sequence.
A “surprise” or “change” card
Keep a special change card that can be added to the visual routine when something will be different. This makes exceptions visible without removing the overall structure.
Acknowledge frustration
It is understandable for a child to feel frustrated. Acknowledge the feeling without minimizing it.
Show what comes next
After a change, update the visual support with the actual sequence for the day. Instead of trying to restore the original routine at any cost, help the person understand what comes next.
📸 If photos are easier to understand
Use real images of familiar places, objects or steps in a short sequence. Observe whether the person recognizes the image and connects it with the activity.
🧩 If pictograms or drawings work better
Use consistent symbols and explain their meaning. The person can participate in choosing and organizing the cards.
📝 If written or digital schedules are accessible
Written lists, calendars, whiteboards or phone schedules may be options. Age alone does not determine the best format.
Remember: the best format is the one that works for the individual person. Observe, test and adapt as needed.
🔗 Quer saber mais? Confira esses recursos
Autismo e Realidade
Information and materials about autism for families and caregivers
Projeto Acolher TEA – Activities
Visual materials and educational resources available within the Project
Estes recursos são indicações educativas. O Projeto Acolher não possui vínculo com as organizações listadas.
Important notice: Visual supports are one possible resource, not a required intervention for every autistic person. If there are significant difficulties with communication, autonomy or participation, consider individualized assessment.
Como criar uma rotina visual
Um guia introdutório para usar apoio visual e tornar atividades e mudanças mais compreensíveis.
Conteúdo externo selecionado como complemento educativo. As informações e opiniões apresentadas no vídeo são de responsabilidade do canal que o publicou.
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