Visuals

How do visuals support understanding and communication?

How do you use visuals in your daily life to support organization, understanding, and retention of information? Do you use a calendar, planner, grocery lists, maps, or signs? As adults, we rely on visuals to organize and understand information and, most importantly, be independent. Visuals are important for children for the same reason, as children are just starting to learn about how things work in the world.

What counts as a visual?

Visuals can include:

Printed pictures
Actions/gestures/sign language
Logos
Words
Facial expressions
Concrete objects

Accompanying Verbal Words with Visuals

Visuals can provide a child with information they are missing when comprehending language.

Visual Schedules

Visual schedules can be useful in helping children understand and organize their day. They can also be useful in promoting independence, clarifying expectations, and assist with transitions.

Visual Schedule by Simply Special Ed. Download for free at:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Simply-Special-Ed

Breaking Down Tasks

Similar to visual schedules, visuals that break down tasks can be useful in helping children understand and organize the steps to a task (e.g., dressing).