Managing Transitions and Routines Using Visual Supports

Transitions can be tough for any child, but for many children with autism, they can be especially challenging. Moving from one activity to another—like ending playtime to get ready for bed or leaving the house to go to school—can bring anxiety, resistance, or even meltdowns. We want to share how visual supports, rooted in the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), can make transitions and daily routines much smoother for both children and families.

Why Transitions Are Hard

Children with autism often thrive on predictability and structure. Transitions can feel unpredictable or sudden, especially if the next activity isn’t motivating or if the child doesn’t fully understand what’s happening. The good news is, we can teach skills that help children navigate changes with more confidence and less stress.

The Power of Visual Supports

Visual supports are tools that present information in a visual way. These can include:

• Visual schedules (pictures or icons that show a sequence of activities)

• First/Then boards (simple visuals showing what happens first and what comes next)

• Countdown timers or transition cards

  
  

These tools help children understand what’s coming, prepare for change, and increase independence.

Benefits of Using Visual Supports

• Reduces anxiety and challenging behavior by providing predictability

• Increases independence because children don’t always have to rely on adult prompts

• Improves communication for children who may have limited verbal skills

• Supports executive functioning (like planning and following routines)

  
  

How to Use Visual Supports at Home

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Daily Visual Schedules

Create a schedule that shows the day’s activities in order. Use pictures, symbols, or words depending on your child’s level. You can:

• Post it on a wall where your child can see it

• Use Velcro or magnets to move items as each task is completed

• Review it in the morning and reference it throughout the day

  
  

My Day in K has posted a free resource for parents who may want to use a visual schedule at home. See this link to download: HERE

2. First/Then Boards

This simple tool shows what needs to happen first, and what comes after (often something preferred!).

• Example: First homework, then iPad

• Helps with motivation and compliance during non-preferred tasks

  
  

Individualized Visuals has posted a free resource for a token board, choice board and first then board on Teachers Pay Teachers. You can download them: HERE

3. Countdown Timers

Whether it’s a visual timer, a sand timer, or a digital countdown, timers can prepare your child for when something will end.

• Example: "In 5 minutes, we clean up toys."

• Give warnings at intervals to ease the transition

  
  

4. Visuals for Specific Routines

Create mini visual guides for common routines like:

• Getting dressed

• Brushing teeth

• Packing a backpack

  
  

  These step-by-step visuals reduce dependence on adult prompts and support consistency.

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Involving Your ABA Team

At Pathways 2 Potential, we collaborate closely with families to create and implement visual supports that are personalized to your child’s needs. We can help you:

• Design visuals that match your child’s learning style

• Teach your child how to use them independently

• Fade supports as skills develop

  
  

Transitions and routines are part of daily life, and while they can be tough, they don’t have to be a daily battle. Visual supports offer children a way to understand, predict, and engage with their environment in a way that feels safe and supportive.

If you ever feel stuck or unsure about how to help your child through transitions, our team at Pathways 2 Potential is here for you. We believe in empowering families with tools that make life easier—and more joyful—one step at a time.