Best Behavior
Keeping a child’s behavior on track can be a challenge. A younger child may act out when he or she has difficulty or is unable to communicate verbally. An older child may show some not-so-desirable behaviors when a familiar routine is disrupted. There are several other causes of behavior difficulties at home, but incorporating visual schedules can promote positive behaviors!
What is a Visual Schedule and How Do I Use One?
Children don’t always have much control over what happens in their daily lives. Adults are constantly telling a child what to do, when to do it, and where to go. Children may be unsure of what is going to happen next in their day, particularly if their usual routine is thrown off for one reason or another. For these reasons, a child may demonstrate some challenging behaviors. Enter: Visual Schedules. A visual schedule is a picture that outlines a sequence of events in a way that a child can understand. This can lessen anxiety that a child can have about not knowing what to expect next or when being asked to stop an activity that he or she enjoys.
Download from PandaSpeechTherapy.com Here
A visual schedule can be something as simple as a “First/Then” board like the one available to download above. The “First” section may include a task or activity that the child must complete. The “Then” section pictures what he or she will do after. Often times, this is something fun! A board like this gives positive reinforcement to a child who may not want to do complete the first task.
A visual schedule can also outline a longer sequence of events, like a bedtime or morning routine. You can laminate these cards or put them in clear page protectors to use daily. Mark as your child completes each step. This one can be downloaded for free at LifeOverCs.com Here
By incorporating these visual schedules into your daily routines at home, you can set your child up for success with his or her best behavior!
Amy Yacoub, MS, CCC-SLP | Speech Pathologist
Proud Member of The Story Box Family
Proud Member of The Story Box Family
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