Visual Supports - Make the Invisible Visible
As both a Behaviour Analyst specialising in Autism and a mother to two amazing children on the spectrum, I've come to see the indispensable role of visual supports in our daily lives. These tools serve as vital aids in communication, learning, and behaviour management, bridging the gap between the unique cognitive processes of individuals with autism and the demands of their environment. At MICAH, we recognise the profound significance of visual supports in fostering independence, reducing anxiety, and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals with autism.
Unlike verbal language and prompts, which can be transient and prone to misinterpretation, visual supports offer consistency, adaptability, and portability across various settings and scenarios. They provide structure, enhance predictability, improve comprehension, and mitigate frustrations and anxiety. Moreover, their universal applicability makes them an invaluable tool in facilitating communication and fostering independence among individuals with autism.
Credit to - https://northstarpaths.com/ @kwiens62
Various visual supports are integral to our everyday lives, aiding us in managing tasks and learning new skills. I heavily rely on diaries, an online calendar system, and many to-do lists to keep myself organised. Consider the frequency with which we turn to platforms like YouTube or WikiHow for visual tutorials when tackling unfamiliar tasks. Just as these tools are indispensable in our routines, visual supports adapt alongside individuals on the autism spectrum, gradually aligning with their growing autonomy.
Some of the visual supports that I currently have with my children and within our therapy:
Schedule for the day - this reduces anxiety about the day and provides structure and predictability.
First/Next/Then charts - we use these to break down tasks into manageable steps or to motivate a child to do a less-like task before an activity they like.
Routine strips - school routines such as entering the classroom, washing hands, lunchtime, end of day, going to the library, and lining up are broken down step by step. Home routines include brushing teeth, unpacking bags, and washing. These strips are used to teach the routine, remind children of the expectations, and prompt the children who are finding it challenging to follow through.
Individual Communication Cards - Retractable Key Ring with Key Visuals - each member has a retractable key ring with the visual prompts needed for routines, basic communication power words, behavioural prompts such as mat behaviours, washing hands, lining up and social communication phrases.
Aided language Displays, Vocabulary and Language Boards - these vocabulary/language boards with keywords support children's communication.
Tricky-o-metre - to support children experiencing frustration when faced with challenges.
Social and Behaviour Skills Posters - these are used to teach, prompt and reinforce social skills we teach.
To explain concepts or rules - if I can visually show a concept, I will!
A trip to the hospital for my ninja's dental surgery was understandably anxiety-inducing for both of us. How could I effectively communicate what would happen to him while providing a sense of structure and safety? Visual supports came to the rescue! I implemented a "first and then" strategy to remain flexible in response to the changing situation. Additionally, we watched YouTube videos depicting operating rooms and the process of receiving a cannula to help familiarise him with the experience. But perhaps most importantly, the ultimate "first then" incentive was established: "First – Hospital, Then – Tooth Fairy Money." To my delight, upon waking from anaesthesia, his first words were, "Where's my money?" as he eagerly reached under his pillow.
As both a Behaviour Analyst and a mother, I've witnessed firsthand how these tools empower individuals on the autism spectrum, fostering independence, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall quality of life. At MICAH, we're committed to recognising and harnessing the profound significance of visual supports, which is why we're thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our MICAH Visual Support Shop. Through this platform, we aim to provide families, educators, and therapists access to a comprehensive array of visual support resources tailored to the diverse needs of individuals with autism.
