Visual Supports - how they can help

What I’ve discovered over the years is that some children don’t really like to follow instructions given by an adult. Sometimes they don’t really know what we’re asking them to do? 

This is certainly the case with some children who have SEND. Maybe their processing ability is slower. Perhaps their working memory means they can only deal with one or two pieces of information at once. 

Asking them to get dressed, have their breakfast, brush their teeth and get their coat, bag and shoes for school is way too much information at once.

This is where the visuals come in. 

For some reason, children (especially those with SEND) follow the instructions given in the form of visuals. It’s not the adults instructing them, it’s the visuals.

These visuals can be created in any form, for whatever suits your families needs best. Whether it’s the simple ‘Now and Next’ board which can show what you’re doing ‘now’ and what’s coming ‘next’, for very short term instructions, or a daily schedule board, all can be tailored to your family.

For those children who may struggle to see the significance of the symbols on the visuals, we can create them with photographs relevant to your family. 

As an example, if they’re going to see Grandma, if you send us a photo of Grandma, we can create a visual for you using Grandma’s photo, so that it is more meaningful for your child.

Useful? Get in touch and see how we can help your family.