Most students we work with, not just those on the autism spectrum, do better with structure and predictability. Sure, curve balls happen and we need to prepare our students to handle those. But making Speech an enjoyable experience will make for easier transitions, fewer tantrums, thus, more progress.
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This year, I will be implementing use of a visual schedule. I bought this small bus sign from the Target Dollar Spot. (Read more about how I’m using other Target finds here.) I embellished it using my Silhouette paper cutter (affiliate link here). I added a strip of Velcro to bottom and it was done! So simple and so cute.
For some students, pictures can be simple instructions, like the ones pictured above. Other students may prefer/require more specific visuals that include the exact materials they’re going to be using.
Speech schedules don’t just have to be for the little ones of those on the spectrum. You can illustrate expectations for things like centers or a group session (and even keep yourself on track in the process) by giving specific pictures of the speech/language targets for that day.
The schedule is placed on the wall right in front of my table, so it is clearly visible to the students throughout the session. I will be keeping all of my schedule’s visuals in this handy magnetic pocket.
You can find the pockets on Amazon:
I decided to share my visual schedule pictures, as well as a couple simple schedule templates (if you can’t or don’t want to use the bus) in my TpT store. Find it here. I hope that with the introduction of a visual schedule to their speech sessions will bring easier transitions, increased participation, order, and joy to my room.
To grab a copy of my visual schedule pictures, as well as two posters to use as the base for your pictures, check out this resource.
I also purchased an apple plaque. I personalized this for my door.
I went a little crazy on buying these apple and bus signs. I’ve decided to give one personalized door sign (on either bus or apple) to one lucky reader! I will cut your name out of vinyl, put it on your chosen sign, and mail it to you (within the continental US). If you’d like to enter to win, leave on comment on this blog post. I will choose a winner in one week (Saturday, August 6, 2017). Good luck! (Be sure to include your email when commenting, so that I can contact you!)
