A Parent’s Guide to Building Structure, Reducing Anxiety, and Empowering Independence
For many children, especially those with autism, ADHD, or anxiety - visual supports can make all the difference. They turn words into pictures, giving kids a clear roadmap of what’s coming next. Visuals help reduce uncertainty, increase independence, and make transitions smoother.
Whether it’s a morning routine, after-school schedule, or step-by-step task, these tools help children see and understand what’s expected, without needing constant reminders.
The best part? You don’t need fancy software or expensive tools. You can create visual schedules, First/Then boards, and to-do lists for FREE using online resources, printable templates, or simple household items.
What Are These Tools?
1. Visual Schedule
A sequence of pictures or icons showing the day’s activities (e.g., breakfast 🥣 → get dressed 👕 → school 🚌 → playground 🛝).
- Helps with: transitions, routines, reducing anxiety, and setting expectations.
2. First/Then Board
A simple 2-step tool that shows what needs to happen first, and what comes after as a reward or next step.
- Example:
First: Brush teeth🪥
Then: Play video game🎮
Perfect for motivation and teaching sequencing.
3. Visual To-Do List
Shows steps needed to complete a task (like cleaning a room or getting ready for bed) with pictures or checkboxes.
Kids can mark off each step for a sense of accomplishment!
🛠️ How to Make Them (Free + Easy!)
✂️ Option 1: Printables + Laminated Cards
Use free templates and print pictures or icons from these sites:
📦 Teachers Pay Teachers – Free Downloads (search “visual schedule free”)
🎨 Canva – search “visual schedule” for free editable templates
Laminate your cards (or use sheet protectors) and attach with Velcro or magnets to a board or fridge.
💻 Option 2: Digital Tools & Apps (Free Versions)
Perfect for tablets or smartphones!
📱 Choiceworks (Free + Paid) – customizable visual schedule app
🧠 Autiplan – digital schedules and routines
📲 Google Slides or Docs – insert pictures, checkboxes, and share across devices
✅ Trello – create visual to-do lists with icons and checklists
🎯 Canva – make simple First/Then visuals or daily planners using free icons
You can also use Google Images or Emojis in Word Docs for quick printable visuals!
✏️ Option 3: DIY at Home
No printer? No problem!
Draw simple stick figures or use magazine cutouts
Tape pictures to index cards
Use a whiteboard and draw “First/Then” sections
Let your child decorate or choose the pictures - giving them ownership encourages use!
💡 Tips for Success
✔️ Start small - begin with one or two routines (like bedtime or morning)
✔️ Keep it consistent - use the same icons or layout daily
✔️ Involve your child - let them move the cards or check off tasks
✔️ Pair visuals with praise - celebrate when they complete a step
✔️ Make it positive - use encouraging pictures and fun rewards
✔️ Review together - talk through what’s coming up to reduce surprises
💙 Why It Works
Visual supports give kids:
Predictability (less anxiety)
Independence (less prompting)
Motivation (clear rewards)
Confidence (success they can see)
Even neurotypical children benefit, everyone thrives on clear structure!
📎 Free Templates & Resources
🔗 Autism Little Learners Printable Schedules
🔗 National Autism Resources Visual Tools
🔗 Do2Learn Picture Cards
🔗 Canva Visual Schedule Templates
🧭 Final Thought
Visual schedules aren’t just for classrooms, they’re life tools. They give kids clarity and control, and they give parents peace of mind. Whether it’s a “First/Then” on the fridge or a digital checklist on a tablet, what matters most is consistency and encouragement.
Start simple, build together, and celebrate each small win.
✨ Because structure builds confidence, and confidence builds independence.
Need help figuring out where to start? Email us at info@empathforautism.com for more tips!