Making Things Make Sense: Using Visual Supports at Home
Ever feel like your child just isn’t following through—no matter how many times you explain what to do? You’re not alone. Most young children (and especially those with developmental differences) respond better to visual information than verbal instructions. That’s where visual supports come in. They’re simple tools that can help your child better understand routines, expectations, and choices—making life a whole lot smoother for both of you!
What Are Visual Supports?
Visual supports are tools that use images, objects, or written words to help a child understand what’s happening, what’s expected, or what comes next. They can be printed, drawn, digital, or even made with objects around the house. They might look like:
A picture schedule showing morning routine steps
A choice board with snack or activity options
A “first/then” chart (e.g., first clean up, then tablet)
A visual timer to show how much time is left
Labels or signs to organize play areas
Why Visuals Work So Well
Young children’s brains are wired to learn through visuals. That’s why picture books, gestures, and facial expressions are so effective. Unlike spoken words, which disappear the moment they’re said, visuals stick around. Your child can glance at them again and again as they’re figuring things out. This also means that YOU can spend less time talking! Visual supports help make abstract instructions more concrete, reduce frustration and confusion, support memory and attention, increase independence, and prevent meltdowns and power struggles.
They are especially helpful during transitions, new routines, or moments of stress—when language tends to break down the most.
Try This at Home
If you’re new to using visual supports, here are a few simple ways to start:
Create a visual schedule for your morning or bedtime routine. You can use photos of your child doing each step, clipart images, or even drawings.
Use a “first/then” board to motivate your child through non-preferred tasks. (First brush teeth, then story time.)
Offer visual choices. Instead of asking “What do you want for snack?” try holding up two options: crackers or apple slices.
Set a timer. Visual timers (or even an hourglass) show time passing in a way kids can see.
At first, you’ll be the one showing and pointing to the visual support—but over time, you can teach your child to use it too. Invite them to check what comes next on the schedule, move a Velcro piece from “First” to “Then,” or choose their own visual when making a choice. Giving your child an active role makes the tool more meaningful and encourages independence. The key is consistency. Pair visuals with your words, and keep them accessible so your child can refer back as needed.
“But My Child Can’t Read Yet!”
Perfect! Visual supports don’t rely on reading skills. In fact, they work best with pictures, objects, or symbols—especially for toddlers, preschoolers, or children with language delays. Focus on clear, simple visuals that your child can understand at a glance.
Visual supports aren’t just for classrooms or therapists. They’re powerful, everyday parenting tools. By making things easier to understand, you’re giving your child more confidence—and giving yourself fewer power struggles. Everybody wins!
